Chapter 200

Snow was a rarity in Houston. Historical records showed only three instances of snowfall in this region, the most recent being during the Kangxi era.

Stella Valentine stared at her phone screen, fingers trembling slightly. She never expected her casually written wish list would become the biggest obstacle.

"Miss Valentine, here are the latest client files." The manager placed the documents gently before her.

"Any news about my uncle?"

The manager hesitated. "Mr. Lefèvre... hosted a yacht party in the Mediterranean. He even chartered a plane for several actresses."

Stella's head snapped up. "When?"

"Yesterday. Morale is plummeting—one-third of employees have already resigned." He handed her a stack of forms. "Worse, our cash flow has dried up. We can't even cover this month's payroll."

Her grip tightened around the pen. Her father's painstakingly built company was being ruined by her uncle.

Her phone vibrated. A text from Mr. Alistair appeared:

[Begin the buyout. Wait and observe.]

"I understand." She gestured for the manager to leave.

But he pulled an envelope from his pocket. "Miss Valentine, I..."

Her chest constricted at the resignation letter. Even this loyal employee, who had served her father for twenty years, couldn't hold on any longer.

"Collect a year's salary from accounting." Her voice grew hoarse as she signed. "You're always welcome back."

The manager's eyes reddened. "Your signature... it looks just like Mr. Valentine's."

Silence reclaimed the office. Gazing at the gathering clouds outside, Stella imagined her father's disappointed expression.

The phone rang abruptly.

"Does it hurt?" Mr. Alistair's voice carried through the receiver. "Victor is dumping his shares."

She straightened instantly. "He's desperate?"

"I opened a European account for you. Enough to buy all his holdings." A pause. "With your existing 25%, you'll regain control."

Her breath hitched. "How much... is in the account?"

"Seven figures. Time was short—"

"It's enough!" Her voice shook. "Mr. Alistair, I..."

"Focus on the task." He interrupted gently. "The password is sent. Move quickly."

When the login screen appeared, Stella gasped—the balance displayed seven figures in euros.

Stock charts bled red. Brilliant Star Group's shares had plummeted from $60 to $13, still falling.

Victor's entire stake appeared for sale. Without hesitation, she clicked "Buy." Her fingers trembled upon confirming the trade.

As the transaction completed, Stella covered her mouth. Tears spilled over.

Six years. Her father's empire had finally come home.

The phone rang again. Her mother's panicked voice: "Stella! The police took your aunt and cousin! They're suspects in a murder case..."

Clutching the phone, she watched the darkening sky outside.

A storm was coming.