Chapter 28
Five years later, the Bennett-Vance empire was an untouchable, monolithic corporate and criminal superpower. Claire Bennett sat in her expansive, cinematicly lit office at the top of the obsidian high-rise. She was thirty-three years old, her movie-star beauty sharpened by years of absolute, uncontested rule.
She wore a flawless, tailored white suit, her fair skin glowing under the neutral, bright light. She was reviewing the final architectural plans for a massive children's hospital she was fully funding in the city center.
The heavy doors opened, and nine-year-old Evan walked in. He was growing into a handsome, confident young boy. He wore a crisp school uniform, his blue eyes bright and intelligent. He carried a heavy backpack, but he moved with an easy, relaxed grace.
"Hey, Mom," Evan smiled, dropping his backpack on the sofa.
"Hello, sweetheart," Claire replied, instantly closing her laptop and giving him her full attention. "How was school?"
"It was great. I got an A on my history project," Evan said proudly.
"I never doubted it for a second," Claire smiled warmly.
She looked at her son, recognizing the incredible resilience he possessed. He had no memory of the doghouse, the chain, or the terrifying violence of the Bennett estate. He only knew a life of absolute safety, surrounded by fierce, unwavering love.
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"Are we still going to the gala tonight?" Evan asked.
"We are," Claire promised. "It's a very important night."
