Chapter 5 - The Monday Morning Ambush
At 8:30 AM on Monday, Julian left the house looking like a captain of industry in his custom Brioni suit and silk tie. He kissed my cheek at the front door, whispered, “Wish me luck today, sweetheart,” and strode down the driveway with a spring in his step.
I waited exactly ten minutes after his car disappeared down the street. Then, I picked up my phone, dialed Victoria Cole, and walked out to my SUV.
“It’s time,” I said into the speakerphone.
“We’re ready,” Victoria replied crisply from her office. “Federal Agent Miller and the board members are already seated in Julian’s executive conference room. We’re meeting you in the lobby in fifteen minutes.”
By 9:02 AM, I walked through the revolving glass doors of Vance Industries downtown. The lobby was bustling with junior analysts carrying stacks of files and administrative assistants rushing to morning briefings. I didn't stop at the front desk; my security clearance badge was still fully active, registered under my original maiden name and corporate executive profile that Julian had conveniently forgotten to revoke in his haste.
I rode the private elevator up to the 28th floor, my heels clicking rhythmically against the polished marble corridor.
As I approached the executive corner office, I could hear muffled shouting coming from inside.
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“What do you mean the wire transfer is frozen?!” Julian’s voice boomed, sharp and panicked. “That capital injection was supposed to clear at 9:00 AM sharp!”
I didn't knock. I reached out, turned the heavy brass handle, and pushed the door open.
