Chapter 2: Everything Falls Apart
Chapter 2: Everything Falls Apart
By the next morning, every major news outlet was covering the scandal.
Videos of Nathan dancing with another pregnant woman had gone viral overnight.
Millions of people watched as Sophia stood silently in the ballroom before walking away forever.
Public sympathy belonged entirely to her.
Investors weren't interested in Nathan's excuses.
They were interested in protecting their money.
Inside the boardroom, the atmosphere was cold.
"Nathan," one director began, "our company's reputation has suffered severe damage."
Another slid several reports across the table.
"Our stock has already dropped twelve percent."
"A number of partners are suspending negotiations."
Nathan looked around the room.
These people had applauded him only days before.
Now none of them would even meet his eyes.
"What do you want me to do?" he asked quietly.
The chairman answered without emotion.
"Step down as CEO."
Nathan froze.
"I built this company."
"And now your personal decisions are destroying it."
He signed the resignation papers in complete silence.
Hours later, another headline appeared.
Nathan Carter Resigns Following Public Affair Scandal.
Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, Sophia stepped off her private jet.
She had returned to the city where she had attended college years earlier.
No reporters.
No cameras.
Only peace.
For the first time in a very long time, she smiled.
May you like
She placed both hands on her baby bump.
"We're finally free."
