Chapter 4: The Lion and the Jackal
Arthur Sterling strode into the library with the unearned arrogance of a man who believed wealth was an absolute shield against morality. At sixty-five, with silver-threaded hair, tailored Italian wool, and a gold-topped cane, he looked every bit the benevolent titan of American industry.
"Julian, my boy," Arthur boomed, extending a manicured hand. "What a catastrophic night. To think that Vance girl was a viper under our roof! The board is in shambles, and stock prices plummeted six percent at opening bell. We must take decisive control."
Julian ignored the outstretched hand, remaining seated behind Victor’s desk. "You seem remarkably composed for a man whose future niece-in-law was just hauled off in cuffs for attempted child murder."
Arthur sighed theatrically, sitting down across from him. "Tragic, yes. But we are Sterlings. We mourn in private and lead in public. Given Leo’s severe trauma, it is obvious he is in no condition to be designated primary heir under Victor’s trust. I have already petitioned the probate court for emergency conservatorship over the boy and the voting shares."
"You won't touch him, Arthur," Julian said coldly.
Arthur’s polite mask slipped, revealing the cold, predatory eyes beneath. "Listen to me, Julian. You are a painter, a philanthropist, an artist. You don't have the stomach for what this company requires. Sign the proxy management papers over to me today, or I will leak reports to the press proving you are mentally unfit to care for a traumatized child."
"Is that a threat, Uncle?"
"It’s a reality check," Arthur sneered, leaning forward on his cane. "Victor thought he was righteous, and look where his righteousness buried him. Don't make the same mistake with your little nephew. Accidents happen so easily on these winding coastal roads."
May you like
Julian felt a surge of volcanic fury, but he kept his composure. He didn't reveal the micro-SD card. He needed rock-solid legal leverage, not a premature shouting match. "Get out of my house, Arthur. Before I have security remove you."
"Your house?" Arthur chuckled darkly as he stood up. "We'll see about that when the board convenes on Friday."
