Chapter 17 - Receiving an anonymous phone call from an unknown informant warning that the true mastermind of the entire conspiracy is still hiding inside the family inner circle.
The sudden, sharp ring of the private landline on the mahogany desk shattered the peaceful quiet of the library.
Arthur frowned, walking over slowly to lift the heavy black receiver before the second ring could echo again.
"Sterling," Arthur answered, his voice deep and commanding as he stared out across the darkened room.
"Enjoy your victory while it lasts, Arthur; you caught the errand boys, but the architect is still walking free," a distorted voice hissed.
Arthur’s eyes narrowed instantly, his grip tightening around the plastic receiver until his knuckles turned bone-white.
"Who is this? Give me a name, or I'll hunt you down before the sun rises," Arthur growled with lethal menace.
"Check the vault behind your grandfather's portrait... the real war hasn't even started yet," the caller laughed before disconnecting.
The line went dead with a hollow click, leaving only a low electronic hum vibrating in Arthur's ear.
Evelyn looked up from her sofa, noticing the sudden, terrifying shift in her father's rigid, unyielding posture.
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"Dad? What's wrong? Who was on the phone?" Evelyn asked anxiously, standing up from her seat.
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