Chapter 7
Rain lashed against the tall glass windows as two federal vehicles pulled into the private courtyard below.
Red and blue emergency lights flashed through the heavy velvet curtains of the study, painting the room in sirens.
Four FBI special agents stepped out of the private elevator, led by Agent Sarah Miller.
"Edward Sterling?" Agent Miller asked, showing her gold badge under the bright chandelier lights.
"We received an emergency transmission regarding corporate fraud and severe physical assault."
Edward gestured toward the adjoining room where Julian remained tied to the heavy chair.
"The perpetrators are waiting inside, Agent Miller," Edward reported smoothly, his tone icy and professional.
"My legal team has already compiled three thousand pages of digital evidence for your team."
Agent Miller signaled her officers, who immediately moved past her with heavy handcuffs ready.
Chloe stumbled out of the holding room, her crimson gown torn at the hem as she saw the federal agents.
"Agent Miller! Help me!" Chloe cried out, her voice filled with fake, desperate terror.
"They kidnapped me! They forced me to stay in this room against my will!"
Agent Miller did not show a single drop of sympathy as she grabbed Chloe's wrists firmly.
"Chloe Montgomery, you are under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder, extortion, and grand larceny," Miller recited.
"You have the right to remain silent... anything you say can and will be used against you."
Chloe shrieked as the steel handcuffs snapped tightly over her delicate wrists.
She turned to look at Julian, who was being marched out by two other agents in total silence.
May you like
"Julian! Tell them I'm innocent!" Chloe screamed, her voice echoing down the marble hallway.
Julian didn't even look back; he walked into the elevator with his eyes fixed on his polished shoes.
