Chapter 21 - THE COLLAPSE OF THE SCHEME
Arthur scanned the bankruptcy filings with frantic eyes, realizing his promised twenty million dollar payout was completely worthless.
"He... he guaranteed the funds were secured in escrow!" Arthur stammered, the color draining entirely from his face.
"You were used as disposable bait, Arthur," Julian said coldly, standing up from the Plaza Hotel table. "And now you are personally liable for filing a fraudulent custody action in the state of New York."
"Julian, wait! We’re family! We can work something out!" Arthur begged, chasing after him into the busy hotel lobby.
Julian stopped near the revolving exit doors, looking back at his late wife’s corrupt brother with complete contempt.
"If you are still inside the state of New York by sunset, my legal team will file criminal extortion charges with the district attorney," Julian declared.
By four o'clock that afternoon, Arthur Montgomery had boarded a one-way flight back to South America, withdrawing his petition completely.
Back at Sterling Manor, Julian sat on the rear patio watching Lily play chase with her golden retriever on the grass.
Mrs. Gable brought out a fresh pitcher of lemonade, placing it on the glass patio table beside Julian.
"Is the storm over, Mr. Sterling?" the nanny asked softly, sensing the relief returning to the estate.
May you like
"For now, Mrs. Gable," Julian replied, taking a glass. "For now."
***
