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THE RIPPLE EFFECT / Chapter 9 / 20

Chapter 9 - FACING THE RECKONINGRichard backed away toward the floor-to-ceiling windows, panic twisting his face into a mask of rage. "This is a setup! She's lying! She's crazy!"

"The police are waiting downstairs, Richard," Ethan said, stepping forward, his voice a calm, dangerous rumble. "Give it up."

In a final act of desperation, Richard pulled a small concealed pistol from his coat pocket, aiming it directly at Victoria. "If I'm going down, you're coming with me!"

Before Richard could pull the trigger, Ethan lunged forward. He slammed his hand against Richard’s wrist, forcing the gun upward. A shot fired harmlessly into the ceiling plaster.

Ethan twisted Richard's arm behind his back, forcing him to his knees, and disarmed him in one fluid motion. Federal agents burst into the room seconds later, taking Richard into hand-cuffs as the board members applauded in relief.

Richard was dragged out of the boardroom, screaming curses that echoed down the hallway.

Victoria stood at the head of the table, resting her hands on the polished wood. She looked at the board members, then turned her eyes toward Ethan, who was standing quietly near the door, offering her a proud smile.

"Meeting adjourned," Victoria stated calmly.

As the board members rushed out to speak to the press, Victoria walked over to Ethan. The adrenaline of the confrontation faded, leaving behind a profound sense of closure.

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"You were amazing in there," Ethan said softly.

"We make a good team, Mr. Carter," Victoria replied, slipping her hand into his. "Now, let's go home. We have a little girl to check on."

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