Chapter 13: Mama Elsie’s Greedy Counsel

Mama Elsie even pushed her more

The next morning, Mama Elsie was in their penthouse avariciously watching Elsie stride around the room like a charged cat. "Listen, little Elsie," she finally got out, her voice urgent, "you have to do something now. The wealth of this man is too big, and you have to make sure it gets into your name as much as possible."

"Mommy, I already have so much. He trusts me; I don't want to betray him."

Mama Elsie's expression hardened, and she drew closer. "Betray him? This is not betrayal, Elsie. It is survival. You must always ensure that you maintain control in every situation."

Elsie wavered while her thoughts raced. She was fully aware of her mother's reasoning, but twisting the dagger into Damian's back was something that still made her stomach churn. The seed of greed was, however, sown, and every day was growing a little in it.

That evening, Elsie put into practice her mother's counsel. She dressed in a stunning gown, exquisitely glammed up and her hair styled perfectly. When Damian would return home, she was going to greet him with a smiling face and a kiss - cast her demeanor as sweet and loving.

"Damian," she said softly and pleadingly. "I have been thinking. I want to feel more secure about our marriage. I want to know that I really am part of your life, your world. I mean, would you consider putting some property in my name? Just a gesture of trust, really?"

His heart was swelling with love and guilt. He had never been this busy with work, and the very thought that Elsie could feel insecure because of it made him want to cry. "Of course, Elsie," he said with a slight break in his voice. "I'll have the paperwork drawn up for you by tomorrow." 

The smile she gave in return was bright, and relief coursed through her. She had successfully manipulated him, transforming the love he had for her into a weapon she could use for her own benefit.

It was Leo who had secretly assisted her in drafting certain legal documents.

The next day, Elsie met Leo in a rather secluded café; the legal documents relating to the properties were laid out and spread between them. Leo's eyes were gleaming with satisfaction as he analyzed the papers, his mind rushing with schemes already.

"This is fine work, Elsie," he said, bubbling over with excitement. "With these properties in your name, we would be making a kill in taking hold of a sizeable fraction of Damian's wealth. And when we are set with everything, nothing can stop us."

Elsie nodded, her heart racing with excitement and guilt. She thought she was betraying his trust, but it was the thrill of holding all the cards that she found so fascinating. 

Leo had reached for her hand, squeezing it firmly. "You're doing the right thing, Elsie. This is for your future, your safety. Don't let anyone take it away from you."

Elsie nodded, firm in her decision. She could not turn back now.