Chapter 12: Secrets Unveiled

Liam's Shocking Revelation

The night air was cold as Liam sped through the city streets, Hope clinging tightly to him. Her mind raced with a million questions, but one burned the brightest why was Liam helping her?

After what felt like an eternity, they finally stopped near an abandoned warehouse. Liam parked the bike and turned to her.

"We're safe here," he said.

Hope crossed her arms. "Start talking. How do you know Victoria? And why did you save me?"

Liam exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "Because I used to work for her."

Hope's stomach dropped. "What?"

"I was a pawn in her game," Liam admitted. "Years ago, Victoria hired me to keep an eye on you. She wanted control over every aspect of your life. But the more I watched, the more I realized she was dangerous."

Hope took a step back. "So, all this time… you were spying on me?"

"Not anymore," Liam said firmly. "I cut ties with her, but that doesn't mean she stopped watching me. That's why I knew she'd make a move against you."

Hope's head spun. "If you were working for her, then you know what she did to my mother."

Liam's expression darkened. "I don't know everything, but I do know one thing Victoria made sure your mother disappeared. And if we don't stop her, she'll do the same to you."

Hope's hands clenched into fists. "Then we fight back."

Liam nodded. "And I know exactly where to start."

Hope and Liam's Counterattack

Liam led Hope inside the warehouse, where he had set up a hidden investigation against Victoria. Stacks of documents, pictures, and recordings were pinned to the walls.

Hope's eyes widened. "You've been collecting evidence?"

"For years," Liam said. "But Victoria is powerful. We need a solid plan to take her down."

Hope studied the files. "What if we expose her?"

Liam smirked. "That's exactly what I was thinking."

He pulled out a USB drive. "This contains proof of her dealings the illegal contracts, the bribes, and even a few conversations she never wanted anyone to hear."

Hope grabbed the drive. "We go public with this. The media, the authorities everyone will know who she really is."

Liam hesitated. "It's risky. She'll fight back."

Hope's eyes burned with determination. "Then let her. I'm done being scared."

Liam smiled. "Alright then. Let's bring her down."

Richard's Final Stand

Back at the mansion, Richard stood in front of Victoria, holding the contract in his hands.

"I'm done covering for you," he said coldly. "You're finished, Victoria."

Victoria sighed, swirling her wine glass. "Richard, darling. You say that as if you actually have the power to stop me."

"I do," Richard countered. "And so does Hope."

For the first time, Victoria's smirk faded. "What did you do?"

Richard stepped closer. "Hope has the evidence. She's going to the press. And there's nothing you can do to stop it."

Victoria's eyes darkened. "You're making a mistake, Richard."

"No," he said. "The only mistake was ever trusting you."

Victoria's grip on her glass tightened. "You'll regret this."

Richard met her glare. "No, Victoria. You will."