Elena gave a calm, knowing smile. “No, David. I’ll do something better. I’ll talk to myself.” She tapped her phone and connected to the Nova Group boardroom. “This is Elena Roberts, Chairman of Nova Group,” she said firmly. “Effective immediately, David Roberts is terminated.”
Shock hit the room instantly. David froze in disbelief, Clara dropped her glass, and Brenda panicked. Mark looked at Elena in stunned silence, realizing the truth about her power.
“I’m sorry, Mark,” Elena said softly. “But our daughter deserves better.”
David protested, but Elena remained calm as chaos broke out. Brenda shouted, but Elena stood, holding her daughter. “Family doesn’t behave like this,” she said.
Clara insulted her, but Elena replied coldly, “This isn’t about money. It’s about respect.”
She then walked out with Lily in her arms, Mark beside her. Outside, Elena finally felt free from years of pressure and humiliation.
“I think it’s time for a new dress,” she told Lily gently. “Something special.”
Lily smiled and hugged her. Mark squeezed Elena’s hand, silently supporting her.
“I didn’t realize…” he said.
“Now you do,” Elena whispered. “And now we can just be ourselves.”
Walking away from the mansion, Elena felt a deep sense of liberation. She had revealed her true identity, protected her daughter, and reclaimed her life. This Christmas wasn’t about revenge—it was about freedom, respect, and a new beginning.