Chapter 14 - The Summons
Back on the 68th floor of the Blackstone Crest Tower, the atmosphere was a masterclass in controlled elegance. Evelyn stood by the massive floor-to-ceiling glass wall, watching the ant-like stream of yellow cabs crawl across the Manhattan streets far below.
Arthur Pendelton walked in silently, holding a sleek black leather portfolio. He stopped two paces behind her, keeping a respectful distance.
"The forensic audit of Everett’s personal expenditures is complete, Madam Chairman," Arthur reported smoothly. "The federal prosecutors have reviewed the twelve point four million in unauthorized corporate transfers. An arrest warrant has been formally issued."
Evelyn didn't turn around. Her reflection in the glass stared back with cold, unbreakable composure. "Is there any public statement required?"
"None," Arthur replied. "The media views it as standard corporate governance rooting out internal corruption. No one outside our inner circle knows the personal history between you and him. To the world, he was just a rogue executive who gambled and lost."
"Good," Evelyn said softly. "Have the federal marshals execute the warrant tonight. I want it done quietly, efficiently, and without unnecessary spectacle. Let him experience the ultimate consequence of his own arrogance behind iron bars."
"Consider it done," Arthur nodded, preparing to turn around and leave the executive suite.
"Wait, Arthur," Evelyn paused, her gaze shifting slightly toward the corner of the room where a delicate crystal vase held a single, perfect white orchid. "What happened to Madison?"
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A faint, sardonic smile touched the edge of Arthur’s lips. "After fleeing the gala empty-handed, she attempted to latch onto a mid-level venture capitalist in Greenwich. Within two weeks, when he discovered her social standing had evaporated and her credit was flagged, he threw her out of his penthouse. She’s currently working as a hostess at a mid-tier steakhouse in midtown, desperately trying to climb back up a ladder that no longer has rungs for her."
Evelyn let out a quiet, indifferent breath. "Poetic justice. Let her stay there. Some people spend their entire lives chasing shadows, never realizing they were stepping on glass the entire time."
