Chapter 5
Back at the secure safehouse, Claire met with a team of forensic accountants to audit the seized corporate ledgers. The digital smartboard projected millions of dollars in embezzled pension funds flowing directly into Marcus’s personal accounts.
"They systematically looted the regional infrastructure grants meant for public schools across three states," an accountant reported. Claire’s jaw tightened into a rigid line as she reviewed the devastating human cost of their corporate greed.
"Every single dollar must be traced back to its origin and restored to the public treasury," Claire commanded firmly. "And what about their commercial real estate holdings in Manhattan?" another operative asked from the corner.
"Seize every building, every yacht, and every secondary residence under federal asset forfeiture laws," Claire instructed without hesitation. Her Apple Watch buzzed gently, reminding her of the baby's feeding schedule with a soft, comforting vibration.
Claire immediately softened, stepping away from the strategic maps to care for her child with absolute devotion. The duality of her existence—fierce warrior of the law and fiercely protective mother—defined every breath she took.
Just then, a secure knock echoed at the study door before Agent Miller stepped inside with an urgent facial expression. "We intercepted an encrypted distress signal originating from Marcus’s hospital room at Walter Reed," Miller reported.
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Claire turned around slowly, her dark eyes narrowing with intense suspicion as she processed the unexpected tactical development. "Who is trying to contact a hospitalized criminal in maximum-security federal custody?" Claire asked coldly.
"His primary Swiss offshore handler, a man known only as Arthur Sterling," Miller answered with a grave tone.
