Chapter 11: The Trojan Horse
The atmosphere in the Sterling Foundation’s executive suite was tense when Harry arrived the following morning. He had deliberately skipped shaving, and he wore a slightly rumpled suit to cultivate the image of a broken, exhausted man.
He called Arthur into his office.
Arthur walked in wearing a perfectly tailored navy suit, looking every bit the confident heir apparent. He sat across from Harry, trying to mask his eagerness with a look of practiced sympathy.
"You look terrible, Uncle Harry," Arthur said gently. "How is Chloe?"
"She's... she's awake," Harry said, rubbing his eyes wearily. He let out a long, heavy sigh. "But the road ahead is long. And Lily is still in the NICU. I can't be here, Arthur. My mind is at the hospital. Every time I sit at this desk, I feel like I’m failing my wife."
Arthur’s eyes lit up with a greedy spark that he quickly tried to extinguish. "I understand completely. Family has to come first. I told you, Beatrice and I are happy to step in and manage things."
Harry leaned back, playing his part to perfection. "I’ve thought a lot about what you said in the boardroom. You’re right. The Foundation needs a steady hand. I’ve drawn up some paperwork."
Harry slid a thick manila folder across the mahogany desk.
"What is this?" Arthur asked, his voice betraying a hint of breathless anticipation.
"It’s a temporary transfer of executive authority," Harry explained, watching his nephew carefully. "It gives you signatory power over the Foundation’s primary investment fund. It’s a multi-million dollar account we use for immediate philanthropic grants. You'll have the authority to authorize transfers and manage the portfolio until I return."
Arthur opened the folder, his eyes scanning the legal jargon. He was trying to hide it, but Harry could see the sheer, unadulterated relief washing over him. This was the exact lifeline Arthur needed to pay off his dangerous creditors.
"Harry, I... I don't know what to say," Arthur stammered, feigning humility. "I won't let you down. I'll protect the Foundation’s assets as if they were my own."
That’s exactly what I’m counting on, Harry thought, his expression remaining grim and tired.
"Just sign on the last page," Harry said, handing him a gold pen. "And Arthur? The board is watching. Be smart."
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Arthur signed his name with a flourish, effectively sealing his own doom. As he walked out of the office, clutching the folder like a winning lottery ticket, Harry picked up his phone.
"The bait is taken," Harry told Frank. "Watch the primary fund. He’s going to move the money today."
