The Trophy Wife Strikes Back Chapter 2

My dad, amused by my sudden business-like tone, took a sip of tea.

"Let's hear it."

I didn't hold back.

I smiled and started listing demands like a menu.

"First, the penthouse downtown goes to Mom. Second, fifteen percent of your company's original shares. Not too much, right? Finally, a bit of cash. Let's say... a hundred million. A nice round number."

Mom gasped behind me.

Linda's face fell, but she maintained her gentle facade.

"Nina, you're still young. You don't understand these things. This would impact your father's company greatly."

I glanced at her.

"Auntie, my parents are discussing divorce settlements. As an outsider, why are you interrupting?"

"I..."

Linda's face flushed red.

My dad waved a hand to silence her, looking at me with interest.

"Fifteen percent is too much. The house and cash are fine."

"No deal."

I stood my ground.

"The shares are the bottom line. Mom was with you for seventeen years. Even if she didn't build the empire, she supported you. Now you're kicking her out for your old flame. You have to give her some security, right? Otherwise, word gets out that Richard Sterling abandons his wife... that'll hurt the stock price more."

"You!"

My dad choked on his anger.

I met his gaze fearlessly.

You think you can treat my mom like a disposable napkin? Dream on.

After a tense silence, Richard suddenly laughed.

"Fine. I agree."

He agreed so readily it surprised me.

"Shares, house, cash. All hers. But I have one condition."

"What condition?"

He pointed at me. "You stay."