Chapter 13 - A New Dawn Over the Washington Skyline
By morning, the storm clouds broke apart, casting brilliant golden sunlight across the gleaming monuments of Washington, D.C.
The executive study had been cleared of debris, and the massive glass blast shutters had retracted to reveal the panoramic city view.
Julian stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows, holding a fresh cup of coffee while reviewing the morning federal restitution filings.
Clara entered the room wearing a sharp, professional charcoal blazer over her dress, looking every bit the senior federal investigator she was.
“The DOJ audit is complete; all stolen assets have been successfully restored to the rightful oversight accounts,” Clara reported.
“And Arthur Sterling?” Julian asked without turning around.
“Facing three consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole. He won't be bothering anyone ever again,” Clara confirmed.
Julian turned, offering a rare, genuine smile that softened his usually severe features.
May you like
“Then I suppose we owe ourselves a proper introduction—without the security guards and hidden micro-recorders,” Julian said, extending his hand.
Clara smiled back, shaking his hand firmly. “Deal, Julian.”
