Chapter 5 - The Purge
Before Vanessa could utter another word, the grand doors of the mansion burst open.
A squad of armed federal agents and city police officers streamed into the room, led by District Attorney Vance—a man I had personally retained three weeks ago.
"Vanessa Sterling, Martin Vance, Daniel Miller, and Eleanor Sterling," DA Vance announced loudly, unrolling a stack of federal arrest warrants. "You are under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder, corporate fraud, bank wire fraud, and grand larceny."
"No! Get your hands off me!" Eleanor shrieked as an officer snapped steel handcuffs around her wrists. "Do you know who I am? I will destroy you!"
"Save it for the grand jury, Eleanor," DA Vance snapped.
Daniel collapsed to his knees, sobbing openly as he was hoisted up by two officers. "Julian, please! We were brothers! Remember college? Don't do this to me!"
I turned my back on him without a word. Betrayal from an enemy is expected; betrayal from a brother is unpardonable.
Vanessa fought like a wild animal as the handcuffs were clicked around her wrists. Her pristine hair came loose, falling wildly around her face. Her makeup was smeared with bitter tears of rage and humiliation.
"You set me up!" she screamed at me, her voice ringing off the high ceilings as she was dragged toward the exit. "You lied to me! You acted weak!"
"I simply allowed you to reveal who you truly were," I said as she passed me. "You dug your own grave, Vanessa. I just gave you the shovel."
As the police dragged the conspirators out into the flashing red and blue lights waiting outside, the remaining guests stood frozen, petrified that my wrath might turn on them next.
I turned back to the crowd, my presence commanding total obedience.
May you like
"To all our distinguished guests," I announced smoothly, adjusting my cuffs. "The party is officially over. My legal team will be reviewing the security footage of tonight’s event. Anyone who assisted or encouraged the treachery displayed tonight will find their business contracts terminated by morning."
Within three minutes, the ballroom was completely empty of guests, leaving behind only the shattered glass, scattered pearls, and the lingering scent of fear.
