ManyWriters

After dedicating years to helping the company prepare for its initial public offering, my girlfriend was finally ready to reveal our relationship publicly. She was on the verge of making the announcement.
However, before she could do so, her arrogant assistant, who had always disliked me, preempted her. He confidently strode onto the stage, placed his arm around her waist, and flashed a victorious grin.
"I thought we agreed to wait a few more years? Couldn't resist any longer, could you?" he taunted, his voice laced with sarcasm.
My girlfriend didn't bother to explain. Instead, she handed him a document—the share transfer agreement—and declared to the audience that he was now the company's newest stakeholder.
The room exploded with astonishment, whispers and murmurs spreading rapidly.
The assistant, clearly reveling in the attention, directed his smugness towards me, throwing subtle insults my way.
And my girlfriend? She made no effort to stop him. In fact, her voice was ice-cold as she added, "You've contributed greatly to the company, but his skills are what we need for a more prosperous future."
I remained stoic, offering no argument. Instead, I smiled, nodded, and graciously handed over my remaining shares to the assistant as well.
"Let's see," I mused internally, "how they'll manage this company without its primary investor."
With that thought, I made my exit.

The IPO Betrayal, Love, Shares, and Corporate Backstabbing

The identity of "Mr. Sterling" at this gathering couldn't be anyone else but the very individual Emily had been hoping to encounter tonight.


Ryan was left speechless, and Emily stood motionless.


Her knees gave way, causing her to stagger backward, almost toppling the champagne table behind her.


My father swiftly moved to support my mother, his expression filled with worry. He then turned to shoot me a disapproving look.


Recognizing my mistake, I bowed my head submissively.


Emily's eyes grew large as she gazed at me in shock.


Without waiting for my response, she erupted into laughter, her voice high-pitched and derisive.


"That can't be true! Your surname is Carter, and his is Sterling. How could they possibly be your parents?"


Chapter 10