Episode 9: The Trap
653 Words
The Grand Sapphire Convention Center slowly emptied as reporters rushed to publish the biggest business story of the year.
Ethan Carter stood near the stage, answering a few final questions before leaving.
"Chairman Carter," a reporter asked, "what is your first priority as the new leader of Carter Global?"
Ethan smiled.
"To restore trust."
"A company grows because of its people, not because of one man."
His answer was met with applause.
As Ethan and Raymond walked toward the exit, Raymond's phone buzzed.
His expression changed instantly.
"Chairman..."
"What is it?"
"It's Harrison Group."
"They're under attack."
Ethan frowned.
"What happened?"
"Several government agencies and banks arrived at the company headquarters this morning."
"They're accusing Harrison Group of financial fraud."
Ethan's eyes narrowed.
"Fraud?"
"Yes."
"And someone anonymously sent fabricated financial documents to the authorities."
Ethan immediately understood.
"Victor."
Raymond nodded.
"I'm afraid so."
---
Meanwhile...
Chaos erupted inside Harrison Group.
Employees gathered in the lobby as investigators searched through offices.
Margaret Harrison looked ready to faint.
"This can't be happening!"
Richard Harrison remained calm despite the pressure.
"We've done nothing illegal."
One investigator approached him.
"Chairman Harrison."
"We've received evidence that your company has been laundering money."
Richard's face darkened.
"That's impossible."
"We've never done such a thing."
The investigator handed him a document.
"Then explain these financial records."
Richard examined the papers.
Within seconds, he realized something was wrong.
"The company seal..."
"It's fake."
"But someone copied it almost perfectly."
Before he could explain further, another investigator entered.
"Sir."
"The media is already outside."
News helicopters circled above the building.
Employees panicked.
Shareholders began calling nonstop.
The Harrison Group's reputation was collapsing by the minute.
---
Across town...
Victor Kane watched the live news from his private office.
A satisfied smile spread across his face.
"Perfect."
One of his assistants stepped forward.
"Mr. Kane..."
"What if Ethan interferes?"
Victor chuckled.
"I want him to."
"If he saves the Harrison family..."
"The public will accuse him of abusing his power."
"If he doesn't..."
"His wife will hate him forever."
"It's a win either way."
The assistant smiled.
"A clever trap."
Victor leaned back in his chair.
"This is only the beginning."
---
At Carter Global...
Ethan stood before the large screen in the boardroom, watching live coverage of the raid.
Every director looked worried.
Director Helen Morris spoke first.
"Chairman..."
"This could become a political issue."
"If Carter Global gets involved, the media will tear us apart."
Another director nodded.
"I recommend staying away from Harrison Group."
Raymond remained silent.
He knew Ethan had a difficult decision to make.
After a long pause, Ethan spoke.
"I won't protect anyone who's guilty."
The directors nodded.
"But..."
"If someone is innocent..."
"I won't allow them to be framed."
He looked toward Raymond.
"Prepare the legal team."
"And send our forensic accounting department."
Director Morris looked surprised.
"You believe the evidence is fake?"
Ethan answered without hesitation.
"Yes."
"Because the Harrison family may have looked down on me..."
"...but Richard Harrison would never destroy the company he spent his entire life building."
The room fell silent.
Everyone admired Ethan's fairness.
He wasn't acting out of revenge.
He was acting out of principle.
---
Just then, Ethan's phone rang.
The caller ID read:
Olivia Harrison
He answered.
"Ethan..."
Her voice trembled.
"They're arresting my father."
"They won't listen to us."
"We need your help."
For a moment, Ethan closed his eyes.
He remembered every insult.
Every humiliation.
Every lonely night.
Then he remembered Richard Harrison's sincere apology.
Slowly, he opened his eyes.
"Olivia..."
"I'm coming."
He hung up, picked up his suit jacket, and walked toward the door.
Raymond followed.
Outside, the convoy of black cars was already waiting.
As Ethan stepped into the lead vehicle, he looked toward the city skyline.
"If Victor wants a war..."
A determined smile crossed his face.
"...then it's time to show him who he's really fighting."
To be continue
- Writer
