**Chapter 29** Laura’s hand rested gently on Avery’s shoulder, a comforting weight that promised solidarity. “You must understand, Avery. You are his daughter. He will not lay a finger on you. I have been by his side since the inception of his company. In our marriage, I never demanded anything in return. I poured my heart and soul—and a great deal of money—into his business. Should he ever dare to harm you, I swear I will haunt him from beyond, even in death.” It was a Monday when Avery summoned her courage and hailed a cab to the Sterling Group. This was no ordinary visit; it was her first foray into the world of Elliot’s empire. The Sterling Group building loomed majestically against the skyline, its glass facade shimmering like a beacon of ambition and power. As Avery alighted from the cab, she took a moment to gather herself before stepping into the grand lobby. “Miss, do you have an appointment?” the receptionist inquired, her voice laced with professionalism. “No, but I need you to contact Chelsea Tierney for me. Let her know that Avery Tate is here and wishes to see her. She will meet with me once she hears my name,” Avery replied, her voice steady. The receptionist regarded Avery for a moment, noting the way she carried herself—poised, yet determined. Without hesitation, she picked up the phone and dialed the PR Department. Moments later, Chelsea emerged from the elevator, her presence almost electric. She approached Avery with a look that could pierce through steel. “Didn’t you just terminate your pregnancy? Shouldn’t you be resting?” she jeered, amusement dancing in her eyes. Avery, with a touch of natural elegance and a hint of boldness, met Chelsea’s gaze unflinchingly. “And yet here you are, flaunting your confidence. But tell me, Chelsea, do you have Elliot’s approval for this little courtship of yours?” Instead of flaring up, Chelsea basked in the moment, a smirk illuminating her face like a trophy. “He won’t stay with you, even if he doesn’t marry me. Avery, he allowed you to have the abortion—that’s his mercy toward you. If I were in his shoes, I wouldn’t let you off so easily.” “Oh, I see you’re well-versed in the darker arts of manipulation,” Avery retorted, a sly smile playing on her lips. “Please, do you think your petty words can shake me? You’re just a joke,” Chelsea sneered, her lips painted a vibrant red, as venom dripped from her words. “What a pathetic loser you are!” Avery remained untouched by Chelsea’s taunts. With a calmness that was unnerving, she leaned closer, her voice a whisper of mischief. “Chelsea, tell me something. Have you ever donned a fluffy dress in front of Elliot?” Brows knitting together in confusion, Chelsea shot back, “How childish! I would never wear something so ridiculous! Why do you care?” With a knowing smile, Avery moved even closer, her words laced with the thrill of revelation. “I finally understand why Elliot doesn’t fancy you. He treasures the cute type—the kind of woman who twirls in playful puffy dresses.” Chelsea erupted in laughter as if Avery had just shared the wittiest jest. “I’ve been with Elliot. You haven’t. So spare me your fashion advice! He may have a preference for puffy dresses and chic hime haircuts, but believe me, pink won’t change his affections!” Suddenly, Chelsea’s laughter faltered, her bravado dimming. She had known Elliot for over a decade, yet he had never shown her such tenderness. Yet here stood Avery, someone who had captured Elliot’s attention in less than three months. The implication sank into her, a troublesome truth she struggled to dismiss. “Why are you telling me this?” Chelsea's voice quivered with disbelief. “What’s in it for you?” “Because I’m seeking a divorce from Elliot. He is as good as dead to me. I only crave my freedom,” Avery declared, her eyes glinting like shards of ice. Echoes of pink puffy dresses and hime haircuts danced in Avery’s mind, vivid reminders of a woman from Elliot’s past. If Chelsea dared to dress like that in his presence, she could envision the chaos that might ensue, the fury bubbling within him until he could no longer contain it. Perhaps, just perhaps, Chelsea’s boldness would lead to her downfall. In that charged moment, Avery felt the thrill of revenge spark within her—a plan was forming, and she was more than ready to watch it unfold.