Chapter 2 - THE MONEY CLAIRE THOUGHT WAS HERS
Claire had not received twelve million dollars in cash.
That was the first correction.
What she had received was a package with an estimated value of approximately $12.2 million.
It included:
$1.2 million in cash transfers.
$3 million in restricted equity units.
$2 million in consulting guarantees.
$6 million in participation rights tied to a future acquisition.
Adrian had described it as:
“Your security.”
Claire heard:
My future.
The structure ran through a private company called Marlowe Advisory LLC.
Claire owned 40%.
Adrian controlled the rest through another entity.
At least that was what Claire believed.
Rebecca’s records showed something else.
The $1.2 million cash came from Hayes Family Capital.
The $3 million equity units were issued by a holding company in which Rebecca owned a 50% marital interest.
And the $6 million acquisition participation was contingent.
Not vested.
Not guaranteed.
Not even fully funded.
Claire stared at the papers.
“You’re lying.”
Rebecca looked at her.
“No.”
Then:
“He lied to both of us.”
That was not what Claire expected.
She expected rage.
Insults.
Maybe a slap.
May you like
Instead Rebecca sounded tired.
Which was worse.
