Chapter 3: Everything Falls Apart

The next morning, Ethan arrived at work expecting another normal day.

Instead, security was waiting.

"Mr. Carter, your access has been revoked."

"What?"

His employee badge no longer worked.

His company email was disabled.

His office accounts were frozen.

Within hours, investors started pulling out.

Then came the second shock.

The luxury apartment he believed he owned?

Leased.

The sports car?

Leased.

Several investment deals that had built his reputation?

Backed by firms connected to Bennett Group.

One by one, opportunities disappeared.

Not because William Bennett destroyed him.

Because William simply stopped protecting him.

That afternoon, Ethan rushed home.

Reporters were already outside.

Someone had leaked evidence showing Vanessa had been involved with multiple clients while helping manipulate investment contracts.

An internal investigation followed immediately.

Meanwhile, Diane received legal notices regarding harassment, defamation, and unlawful eviction attempts against Olivia.

For years, they had treated Olivia like she was powerless.

Now they were learning how much power she had chosen not to use.

Ethan finally called Olivia.

For the first time in their marriage, his voice trembled.

"Please... let's talk."

Olivia looked down at her phone.

Then calmly pressed decline.