Maximus accusations

Snippets from the night Maximus blackmails Roth. 

“She doesn’t need anything from you.” He let his eyes move over Roth’s, arguably, intimidating figure. “Not that she got much from you anyway. She’s been scraping by in life as your wife, living in a hovel, while you live like a king.” He cast the luxurious penthouse a derisive look. “You left her in Philadelphia because we both know you never wanted to be saddled with a wife. You’ve been biding your time, waiting for me to tire of the estrangement and accept you or die so you can get your hands on Hennessy money and connections. That will never happen.” 

He had too much adrenaline coursing through him to stay still so he limped over to the glass of Scotch that was calling his name. He sniffed appreciatively. It was the perfect way to celebrate a gorgeous night when his scheming came together perfectly. Roth had finished his drink, which meant it probably wasn’t laced with poison. But just in case Roth had been poisoning himself so he could withstand the effects long enough to convince an opponent to trust him, he was already on his deathbed. He would have his victory in a matter of minutes, which was long enough to free his daughter and savor his favorite drink one last time if Roth was that diabolical. He took his first pull and almost sighed in relief as his body warmed. 

“Jasmine will be reinstated as a full Hennessy, with access to everything she gave up to be with you. She learned her lesson, marrying beneath her. Why should she waste time wishing for something that will never be when there’s dozens waiting for the honor of having her?”

Roth’s pocket bulged as his hand balled into a fist.

“Ford never got over her,” he said casually. 

Neither his stance or expression changed, but he sensed Roth’s energy shift. 

“If you aimed to ruin her so no one else would want her, you missed the mark. She’s a Hennessy, no matter the scandal attached to her name. Her beauty makes it easy for men to forget her lapse in judgment where you’re concerned.” 

**This is a raw draft of Roth’s book. Please do not share or distribute.