“Federal agents have executed search warrants at the offices of Apex Development,” the reporter said.

“Founder and CEO Ethan Vance has been taken into custody on charges of racketeering, money laundering, and corporate fraud.”

The screen showed footage of Ethan, his hands cuffed behind his back, being led down the courthouse steps.

His face was pale, his eyes glaring at the cameras, his jaw clenched tight.

He looked smaller without his tailored suits and his mahogany desk.

Liam walked into the kitchen, carrying two mugs of coffee.

“They got him,” he said, setting a mug in front of me.

“They did,” I said, staring at the screen. “But it’s only the beginning. The company is going to collapse.”

“You still own forty percent of the shares, Claire,” Liam said, sitting down.

“I know,” I said. “And the board is going to try to liquidate everything to cover their legal fees.”

“What are you going to do?”

“I’m going to take control,” I said. “I’m going to rebuild it.”

“It’s a toxic brand, Claire,” Liam said gently.