“It is all legal,” I said, a sense of relief washing over me.

“The federal authorities have verified the authenticity,” Vincent said.

“The forgery Derek used to freeze your assets has been declared null and void.”

I took a sip of the warm tea, feeling the heat spread through my chest.

“I don’t know how to run a shipping company, Vincent,” I admitted.

“You do not have to do it alone,” he said, leaning back in his leather chair.

“We can establish a partnership.”

“An alliance?” I asked.

“A formal business alliance,” Vincent corrected, his tone professional.

“My logistics network combined with your shipping lines.”

I looked at him, searching his face for any sign of deception.

I saw only a quiet, steady resolve.

“What do you want from this, Vincent?” I asked.

“Legitimacy,” he said simply.

“My family has spent decades in the shadows.”

“Your father’s company represents a clean path forward for my interests.”

“And what do I get?” I asked.

“Protection,” Vincent said.

“Security, and the assurance that no one like Derek will ever threaten you again.”