Chapter 3: The Empire of Glass
"You have no power here!" Arthur shouted, his voice cracking, trying to summon the security team that usually swarmed the property.
Silence was his only answer.
"They're gone, Arthur," Julian said, gesturing casually toward the window. "I bought the firm that provides your security detail three days ago. They’re currently resigning from your employ."
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Julian reached into his jacket and tossed a thick stack of legal documents onto the coffee table. "And that’s not all. Every share of stock, every offshore holding, every deed to this mansion—it’s all in my name. I’ve been systematically liquidating your assets for the last six months. You aren't the owner of Sterling Enterprises anymore. You’re just a guest in my foyer."
The realization hit Arthur harder than a physical blow. He had spent his life thinking he was the smartest man in the room, never realizing his own son had been playing a longer, sharper game. He looked at his hands, then at his daughter, then at the son he had tried to drown. He was completely, utterly destitute.
