The next morning, Leah stood before her mirror, brushing her golden hair. Her face looked calm — radiant, even. But under the surface, a storm churned.
Chris was in the shower, humming like nothing was wrong.
He had no idea that everything was about to collapse around him.
She walked into the kitchen and brewed his favorite coffee, adding a little cinnamon like always.
When he walked in, towel around his neck, she greeted him with a smile.
– "Morning, love."
He kissed her cheek.
– "You're glowing today."
– "Just... happy to see you."
He had no idea she had printed screenshots of every message between him and Lisa. No idea she had hired a private investigator in Paris. No idea she had sent an anonymous package to Christopher.
Because Leah wasn't just going to confront them.
She was going to break them.
From the inside out.
Later that day, Leah walked into her father's office. Mr. D'Amelio — powerful, respected, and dangerously loyal to his daughter.
– "What's wrong?" he asked. "You only visit when something's broken."
Leah placed a USB on his desk.
– "You told me to marry Chris because he was trustworthy. Because he'd protect the legacy."
Her voice didn't shake.
– "But he's not loyal, Dad. And he's using me. For the company. For your trust. For your money."
Mr. D'Amelio's eyes narrowed.
He plugged in the USB.
Ten seconds in, and his jaw clenched.
– "You want me to handle this?"
Leah shook her head.
– "No. I want you to do nothing. Let them think I don't know. Let them get comfortable. I need time."
Her father studied her. Then, slowly, nodded.
– "You're your mother's daughter."
That evening, Christopher received the anonymous email.
Subject: You Deserve to Know
Attached: A video. No explanation.
He clicked.
And watched.
First disbelief. Then rage. Then... cold, calculated silence.
He didn't reply. Didn't react.
He just stood up, poured a drink, and stared at the window for hours.
Lisa noticed.
But said nothing.
Because deep down, a part of her already knew.
Meanwhile, Leah slipped into her black silk robe, curled up with a book in the penta-living room, and sipped her tea.
Chris entered, smiling.
– "You look peaceful."
She looked up, eyes calm.
– "I am."
He had no idea the entire tower was turning into her chessboard.
"One wrong move," she thought,
"and I'll end your game."