Chapter 9 - The Aftermath
The lead detective stepped into the penthouse, his eyes sweeping the chaotic scene.
Detective Reynolds was a seasoned veteran who had seen every level of corporate greed.
He immediately ordered his officers to take custody of the bleeding assassin.
The hitman offered no resistance as they hauled him out of the luxurious armchair.
Maya handed over the heavy suppressed pistol she had retrieved from under the sofa.
She also transferred the encrypted digital files directly to the detective's secure tablet.
"This contains all the audio and video evidence from the gala downstairs," Maya explained.
"It clearly incriminates both Marcus Sterling and Evelyn Croft in the attempted poisoning."
Arthur watched the organized chaos with a profound sense of quiet clarity.
He realized how incredibly isolated his immense wealth had truly made him over the years.
The people he had trusted most were the ones actively plotting his immediate demise.
Detective Reynolds approached Arthur with a respectful but firm demeanor.
"We have Marcus Sterling in custody downstairs, Mr. Pendelton," the detective confirmed.
"He is currently demanding his lawyers and denying any involvement in tonight's events."
Arthur offered a tired, knowing smile at the predictable cowardice.
"Let him scream all he wants," Arthur replied smoothly.
"The financial transfers are already complete, and he no longer holds any power."
The detective nodded, clearly impressed by the billionaire's composed resilience.
"We will still need you both to come down to the precinct for official statements," Reynolds stated.
"Of course, officer," Arthur agreed without hesitation.
He grabbed his tailored suit jacket from the back of the heavy leather chair.
Arthur looked around the bullet-scarred penthouse one final time.
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It was a beautiful prison built entirely of glass, steel, and dangerous ambition.
He was finally ready to walk away from it all.
