Chapter 14: Legacy Rewritten

Clara hosted the first Lockwood Foundation Gala under her leadership. She gave a speech that made everyone determine,she stirred the room:

> "This company was built on tradition—but tradition must evolve. Our future will be one of transparency, truth, and justice. My name is Clara Lockwood—and I've come home."

Applause thundered.

Adam was absent.

But others were watching—rivals from old money, journalists sniffing for scandal, and one man in particular… a sharp-suited investor named Julian Ashcroft, who watched Clara like she was both flame and matchstick.

After the gala, he approached.

"You're not just rebuilding a legacy," he said. "You're rewriting what it means to own one."

"And you are?" Clara asked.

"Someone who sees power. And potential. We

should talk."

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