Savannah didn't need to look back at the Stark mansion. The dumbfounded expression on Weston's face was satisfaction enough. But there were more important matters at hand.
James Caldwell sat across from her in the luxury sedan, his piercing gaze assessing her every move. "Your mother, Eleanor Arden, was more than just my mentor—she was my friend. She believed in Arden Group, in what it could be. And she knew that one day, you would have to reclaim what was rightfully yours."
Savannah exhaled, gripping the leather folder in her lap. "Tell me everything."
James nodded. "Your grandparents built Arden Group from nothing. Under their leadership, it flourished, dominating the market for decades. When your mother took over, she continued their legacy, expanding the company's reach. But when she passed away, your father saw nothing but dollar signs. He gambled with risky ventures, drained its resources, and sold off vital assets to keep up appearances. Now, the company is drowning in debt."
Savannah's grip tightened. "And Weston?"
A grim look crossed James's face. "Your father, desperate to keep Arden Group afloat, sold off large portions of its shares. Weston Stark now holds 45%—making him the single largest stakeholder. Your father retains 28%, which still gives him considerable influence. You, Savannah, were left with only 12%."
Savannah's mind raced. "So Weston has the power to make decisions over what's left of my family's legacy?"
James hesitated. "Yes. But you also have something your father never did—your mother's foresight. She left you something beyond just company shares. The will states that, upon your return and acceptance, you will gain full ownership of the Arden estate, liquid assets, and an untouched emergency fund that your mother safeguarded away from your father's reach."
Savannah's lips curled into a smirk. "Then I have exactly what I need to turn the tide."
James regarded her carefully. "Are you ready for this, Savannah? Taking on Weston and your father won't be easy."
Savannah straightened, her voice unwavering. "I'm not just taking them on. I'm taking back everything that belongs to me."
She had been underestimated for too long. That ended today.