Chapter 0693
While Valerie and Peter wrestled with memories of their pasts, the world outside continued to move forward, and things were beginning to fall into place.
In Valentia, great fanfare surrounded the much–anticipated arrival of the young judge, Anthony Moriarty. At just 40 years old, he was assuming one of the highest positions in the government.
The power Moriarty wielded was immense, surpassing ever that of Frank Levett two decades earlier. Comparisons and references were inevitable, though Moriarty’s rise was distinct in its significance and potential impact.
The media was abuzz with the news, and one line from Anthony Moriarty’s speech had caught everyone’s attention:
“In the past, the opportunity to close cases was given to a select few who acted as they pleased. Today, I say this: no more! The position I now hold will allow us to reopen cases and resolve them with dignity and integrity. We cannot lose sight of the past because, if we do, we are doomed to repeat it in the future.”
Hearing these words echoed across various outlets, Magnus and Peter knew exactly what the man was referring to.
Frank Levett had been closely following Moriarty’s rise to power. Though he didn’t know the full story behind it, he understood that the man’s arrival could drastically change the playing field.
If he continued to be Leonardo’s lackey, there was no doubt that, at the first sign of danger, Leonardo would discard him without hesitation–something Frank couldn’t afford to let happen.
With this in mind, Frank decided it was time to set his long–planned scheme into motion. The document in his hands granted him the authority to execute his plan.
On a Monday morning, as Leonardo arrived at the company, he was surprised to find the security personnel had changed. He didn’t recognize the guards. His access card confirmed his identity, but the new staff seemed
unfamiliar with him.
Leonardo made his way past security, mentally noting to speak with HR immediately and fire the incompetent staff at the entrance for failing to recognize his authority.
Something about the offices of Palmer Group felt off. The atmosphere was tense. The employees looked uneasy- almost afraid. As Leonardo walked toward the presidential office, he noticed the stares. Some employees seemed like they wanted to say something but hesitated.
Just before he reached his office, he was intercepted by Frank Levett and a group of security officers.
“Gentlemen, this is Leonardo Palmer–the man you’re looking for,” Frank Levett Jr. said coldly.
“What the hell, Frank? If this is some kind of joke, I’m not laughing.”
“Mr. Leonardo Bartz, you are under arrest for embezzlement and impersonation of an executive,” one of the agents with the officers declared.
“What? What the hell is this, Frank? Impersonation? This has to be some kind of sick joke!”
“No, Leonardo. It’s nothing of the sort. I spoke with my father, and he reminded me of a power of attorney you signed years ago. It handed over all administrative rights in the event of misconduct by any member of the board.”
“And now,” Frank continued, his tone icy, “we’ve detected irregularities in your actions. Unfortunately, I have no choice but to enforce that power.”
1/2
Chapter 0693
“You’re a bastard! You know that document doesn’t exist!!
“Oh, it exists. Look for yourself–it was signed 35 years ago.”
“That’s impossible! Frank wasn’t even in charge back then You lying son of a bitch! You’re trying to steal what’s rightfully mine! This whole thing is a damn setup!”
“Officer, please escort this despicable man out of here,” Frank said with an air of calm authority. “He has stolen the position meant for his son, Maximus Palmer, and has been embezzling company funds for years. His actions have driven the company to the brink of bankruptcy.”
At Frank’s signal, the lead agent directed the officers to arrest Leonardo. Despite his protests, shouting, and struggling, Leonardo was unable to break free from their grip.
