Chapter 26 - The Shadow in London
Richard returned to the Greenwich estate in a state of absolute tension, his mind racing with Eleanor's terrifying warning.
He immediately called Special Agent Jenkins to run an international background check on Arthur Sterling.
An hour later, Jenkins arrived at the estate, carrying classified Interpol digital files.
"It's true, Richard," Jenkins revealed solemnly, placing a tablet on the study desk.
"Arthur Sterling is a former MI6 operative who turned rogue ten years ago, building a private security empire across Europe."
"He has been operating under multiple aliases, including a shell corporation in London."
Maria listened from the doorway, her hands clutching a tray of warm tea.
"Why would he target Leo now?" Maria asked anxiously.
"Because under the original European trust terms, Leo becomes the sole legal owner of Sterling International on his seventh birthday," Jenkins explained.
"Which is exactly three weeks from today," Richard realized, his military instincts reawakening in full force.
"If Arthur gets legal custody of Leo, he absorbs forty percent of Vance Enterprises as well."
Richard walked over to the stone fireplace, looking up at the framed American flag hanging above the mantle.
"We defeated Eleanor and Victor," Richard stated firmly.
"We're not going to let a European syndicate destroy our family now."
"We need to fortify this house immediately," Maria insisted, stepping beside Richard.
"Carlos can upgrade our cyber defenses, and we'll bring in a full tactical security detail."
Richard looked at Maria, feeling immensely grateful for her steadfast resolve.
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"We fight together, no matter what comes," Richard promised softly.
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