Chapter 5 - The Brother’s ShieldMy brother, Julian, opened his door at 4:30 AM looking like a man who had seen ghosts. When he saw Clara, he didn't ask questions; he ushered us inside, his wife immediately taking Clara into the spare room to assess the wounds.
I sat Julian down in his office, his face hardening as I laid out the story.
"She went too far this time, Ethan," Julian said, his knuckles white as he gripped his coffee mug. "I’ve been tracking her movements for a separate case. She’s been working with a private security firm—they’re basically thugs in suits. She’s not just after your money; she’s trying to consolidate power in the firm by eliminating you."
"Why?" I asked, stunned.
"Because you were going to merge with the international branch. She wanted the firm to stay local so she could control the board. You were in her way."
The realization hit me hard. My entire life had been a pawn in her game.
"We need to stop her before she gets back to our house," I said. "She’s going to think Clara signed the papers and is waiting there."
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"No," Julian said, a grim smile forming. "We’re going to let her walk into a trap."
We spent the next two hours crafting a digital trail that would lead her straight into the arms of the authorities. We created fake documents, hacked her temporary access, and prepared the house for a very unwelcome guest.
