Chapter 8 - Debt and Shadows|
By sunrise, the rain had stopped, leaving the city washed in a gray, misty dawn.
Catherine arrived at the hospital in person, holding a thick leather folder. She sat across from Elena while Raphael stood guard near the door.
"Vivienne Sterling’s lawyers reached out two hours ago," Catherine announced, opening the file. "She’s panicking. She wants a cooperation agreement with the District Attorney in exchange for press protection."
"Why did she do it?" Elena asked, her voice steady despite her exhaustion.
"Money," Catherine said simply. "Vivienne looks wealthy, but her estate is hollowed out. High-stakes online gambling, bad art investments, and two massive private loans she couldn't service. She was facing complete public financial ruin."
"Who bought her debt?" Raphael asked, stepping closer.
Catherine looked up at him carefully. "Three months ago, a firm linked to Caruso Development Group quietly acquired her loan notes."
The room fell completely silent.
Nico Caruso.
At thirty-six, Nico had recently taken over Caruso Development following his father's retirement. For two years, Caruso Development and Moretti Infrastructure had been locked in a bloody war for a multi-billion-dollar freight terminal lease in New Jersey.
"Nico," Raphael spat the name like poison.
"Vivienne claims Nico Caruso learned about your relationship with Elena," Catherine explained. "And his private investigator recently confirmed the pregnancy. He offered to wipe Vivienne's debt clear if she executed a 'demonstration.'"
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Elena’s eyes widened. "A demonstration?"
"Nico wanted to prove to Raphael that his private life wasn't untouchable," Catherine said softly. "Vivienne claims it was never meant to be lethal. Just enough to put Elena in the hospital and rattle Raphael before the final municipal board vote next week."
