Chapter 4
Madison made the first mistake after Robert’s order.
She pointed at Harper.
“Don’t start drama. You’re lucky we included you at all.”
Harper tilted her head slightly.
“Included me?”
Madison flushed.
“You know what I mean.”
“No. I don’t.”
Cameron stepped forward.
“Harper, don’t embarrass everyone right before the car service leaves.”
She glanced at him.
“You mean the car service I booked?”
Cameron’s mouth closed.
Diane’s eyes sharpened, but she still did not understand.
Robert did not either.
He thought Harper’s comment was about effort, not ownership.
“Enough,” he snapped. “Nobody asked for your attitude.”
Harper opened the beige portfolio.
Inside were several documents, neatly clipped.
Not dramatic.
Not thick.
Not enough to explain everything.
Just enough to stop a family vacation from becoming another act of theft disguised as tradition.
Robert laughed when he saw the paper.
“What is that supposed to be?”
Harper removed one sheet.
“A cancellation confirmation.”
Diane’s face tightened.
“For what?”
Harper looked at the mountain of luggage.
“The Bahamas trip.”
For a second, even the palm leaves seemed still.
Then everyone spoke at once.
Madison said, “You’re insane.”
Cameron said, “That’s not funny.”
Diane said, “Robert, do something.”
Robert stepped closer.
“You don’t have the authority.”
Harper’s expression did not change.
“That’s what you should have checked before telling me to stay home.”
At the mansion entrance, the two suited Apex representatives remained still, professional, and observant.
They had seen wealthy families panic before.
May you like
They had not seen many panic this quickly.
Read the full story 👉 Harper’s calm paperwork did what shouting never could: it made Robert question whether he had ever truly controlled the trip.
