Chapter 6 - The Trap ClosesCeleste stared at the federal subpoena, her face turning an ugly shade of mottled purple. The arrogance, the poise, and the chilling control she had maintained for decades dissolved completely into desperate panic.
“You can’t do this!” Celeste screamed, lunging forward to grab the document. “The Harrow Foundation is untouchable! We own half the pharmaceutical patents in the tristate area!”
Before she could touch the paper, the heavy double doors of the recovery room swung wide open.
Two federal economic crime investigators, accompanied by local police officers, marched directly into the room.
“Mrs. Celeste Vance,” the lead investigator announced loudly, flashing his gold badge. “You are formally under arrest for corporate wire fraud, identity theft, unauthorized medical database intrusion, and grand larceny.”
Celeste stumbled backward, colliding hard against the medical supply cart. “No! This is a mistake! My lawyer—!”
“Your lawyer is currently being questioned at the federal precinct downtown alongside your co-conspirators,” Adrian interrupted coldly.
The officers stepped forward, taking Celeste firmly by both arms. Heavy steel handcuffs snapped onto her wrists with a sharp, metallic click that echoed through the intensive care unit.
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As they dragged her screaming, struggling form out of the room, Celeste glared at me with pure, unadulterated hatred. “You think you’ve won, Maya! Without the foundation’s backing, your father’s medical bills will bankrupt you in a week! You’ll lose everything!”
“She won't lose a damn thing,” Adrian called out smoothly as the doors closed behind her. “Because I own the hospital, the foundation, and the future.”
