The weeks that followed were the hardest of Daniel's life. He fought on multiple fronts in boardrooms and courtrooms, in the press, and on Wall Street. He gave interviews to business magazines arguing that Hayes Enterprises was more than just a company, that it represented Victoria's vision for a more ethical, family-friendly approach to capitalism. Some people believed him, many didn't. Marcus Webb worked against him at every turn, whispering in shareholders ears, planting stories and financial papers, doing everything he could to undermine Daniel's leadership.
"You're in over your head, Carter." Marcus told him one evening, cornering Daniel in the parking garage. Just admit it. Sell to Hargrove, take your golden parachute, and go back to being a nobody. Is that what you want, Marcus? To work for a man like Hargrove.
I want to work for someone who knows what they're doing. Someone who belongs in that corner office? Marcus stepped closer. You're a fraud, Carter. A charity case Victoria promoted because she had some twisted obsession with your daughter.
Everyone knows it. Daniel grabbed Marcus by the collar and shoved him against a concrete pillar. Say that again. Get your hands off me. Say that again.
Marcus's face was red, his eyes bulging. This is assault. I'll have you arrested. You think I care? Daniel's voice was barely a whisper.
You think I give a damn about my career, my reputation, any of it. Victoria trusted me to protect her company and her daughter. I will do whatever it takes to honor that trust. Whatever it takes. Do you understand me?
Marcus swallowed hard. You're insane. Maybe. But I'm also the man standing between Victor Hargrove and everything Victoria built. And if you help him destroy that, I will destroy you first.
Daniel released Marcus and stepped back. Stay away from me. Stay away from my daughter and stay away from Victoria's memory. He walked to his car without looking back. That night, Rachel called.
I heard about Hargrove. How bad is it? Bad. Daniel rubbed his eyes. We need more shares to block the takeover.
Shareholders who are willing to stand with us. What about Victoria's parents? Daniel froze. What? Edward and Margaret Hayes.
They still own 4% of the company. Victoria gave them shares years ago before the estrangement. Victoria's parents are alive very much so, living in a retirement community in Arizona. Rachel paused. They don't know about Lily.
Victoria never told them she found her. Daniel's mind raced 4%. It wasn't much, but combined with the shares he already controlled, it might be enough to block Hargrove. Can you set up a meeting, Daniel? They're not good people.
They're the reason Victoria gave up her baby. The reason she spent 15 years alone and miserable. I know, but right now, they might be the only people who can save their granddaughter's inheritance. Rachel was silent for a long moment. I'll make some calls, but Daniel, be careful.