Twisted Obsession (Twisted Series #3)

Chapter Twelve

Valeria

The boardroom was buzzing after my presentation.

I watched as executives exchanged glances, whispering to one another. The energy in the room was electric—not the anxious kind I used to dread, but the kind that meant I finally had their attention.

When I wrapped up the last slide, I glanced at Aiden, who stood at the back of the room. He gave me the smallest nod.

I didn’t need applause. The silence was enough—the kind where people were genuinely impressed, still digesting what I just showed them.

I took a deep breath. “Thank you. I’m ready for your questions.”

The questions came one by one—firm, challenging, but not hostile. I answered each with clarity and confidence. Every answer reminded me: I belonged here.

And then came the final question.

“What’s your long-term vision for CruzTech’s place in Southeast Asia, especially with the rumored merger on the table?” asked Mr. Martinez, one of the most respected board members.

I didn’t flinch. “We don’t need a merger to grow. We need courage. Innovation. And leadership that doesn’t just chase numbers—but builds legacy. That’s what I intend to do.”

There was a beat of silence.

Then Mr. Martinez nodded. “Well said, Ms. Navarro.”

---

After the Meeting – Private Lounge

I collapsed into the armchair, exhaling all the tension that had built up.

Aiden entered and poured two glasses of whiskey.

“To your first board strategy win,” he said, handing me one.

“Thanks,” I murmured. “I thought I was going to faint halfway through.”

“You didn’t. You owned it.”

He sat across from me, eyes softening. “You’ve always had this in you, Val. I just needed you to see it.”

I smiled faintly, warmth blooming in my chest.

---

Later That Night – Aiden’s Penthouse

We ended up at his place. It wasn’t planned, but neither of us questioned it.

We were sitting on his balcony, sharing a blanket, watching the city lights. My head rested on his shoulder.

“Selena won’t stop,” I whispered.

“No, she won’t,” he said. “But we’ll be ready. I talked to the last two investors. They’re withdrawing support. She’s losing her leverage.”

“She’ll find another way.”

“She can try. But she’s not coming back. Not this time.”

I turned to face him. “Do you regret resigning?”

He looked me in the eyes. “The only thing I regret is not choosing you sooner.”

And then, he kissed me.

Not the cautious kind. Not the maybe we’re just figuring this out kind.

This was the I’m not letting you go again kind.

---

Days Later – PR Office

“Valeria,” said Grace from PR. “May paparating tayong anonymous tip. Someone’s leaking internal emails connected to the merger. May pangalan ni Selena.”

My heart jumped.

“Are the emails legit?”

“We’re vetting them. Pero kung totoo ’to, we have proof na she manipulated investor interests and planted people on the board.”

I stood. “Get Legal on this. Immediately.”

This was our shot to end it.

---

That Night – Valeria’s Condo

Aiden came over with takeout and a laptop.

“Are you ready to see her crumble?”

“More than ever.”

He showed me the compiled documents. It was all there—undeniable evidence of manipulation, bribery, and even threats against two junior employees.

I scrolled through them in silence, each revelation like a stone lifting off my chest.

“I’ll bring this to the board tomorrow,” I said.

He didn’t say anything—just reached for my hand.

And in that quiet, I knew we were no longer in a war.

We were in recovery.

Building.

Together.