Chapter 4
Within minutes, the sterile hospital hallway filled with the unmistakable sound of rapid footsteps and urgent murmured commands. Three senior investigators from the Department of Justice financial crimes division walked purposefully into the room.
"Mr. Vance, we've executed the primary asset freeze across all domestic and international accounts associated with Eleanor Sterling," an agent reported. Eleanor spun around, her face turning the color of ash as she stared at the federal badge held before her eyes.
"This is an illegal seizure! My lawyers in Manhattan will dismantle your careers before the sun sets today!" Eleanor shrieked. "Your lawyers resigned fifteen minutes ago once they realized their own retainer fees were paid with embezzled funds," the agent replied.
Eleanor staggered backward, her high heels clicking frantically against the floor until her spine hit the corridor wall. She looked around the brightly lit hospital room, realizing every single exit was sealed by absolute legal authority.
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"You planned this... you both set me up to walk into this room and destroy myself," Eleanor whispered in horror. Christian stood up slowly from the bedside chair, adjusting his navy blue suit jacket with immaculate, unhurried grace.
"We didn't set you up, Mother; we simply gave you enough rope to hang your entire social standing," Christian corrected coldly.
