Chapter 12 - The Husband's Collapse
"She would have ruined the family name, Mark!" Eleanor cried out, reaching for her son's arm. "I did it to save the company!"
Mark backed away from her touch as if her hands were made of fire.
"You tried to kidnap my daughter," Mark said, his voice trembling as tears finally spilled down his cheeks.
"She isn't just your daughter, Mark! She's the majority shareholder!" Eleanor shrieked, her voice echoing off the garage walls.
Clara stepped between them, picking up the duffel bag and securing it over her shoulder.
"The State Police are outside, Eleanor," Clara declared calmly. "And this time, your money can't buy you out of the federal hold."
Sirens blared down the driveway as three black State Police SUVs pulled up, their tires screeching against the wet asphalt.
Armed troopers poured out of the vehicles, entering the garage with flashlights drawn.
"Eleanor Sterling, stay where you are!" the lead trooper ordered, presenting a federal fugitive warrant.
Mark watched in total silence as two officers forced his mother to her knees, snapping heavy steel cuffs around her wrists.
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He didn't say a word; he didn't even move to comfort her as she was led away into the dark, rainy night.
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