Maxwell’s jaw tightened. His mind swirled. Cassian, his right hand at the company. Best friend since school. a man he trusted like family. The idea scraped against Maxwell’s beliefs until sparks flew. “No. He would never. You must be mistaken.”
“He has already filed motions to seize temporary control of the corporation,” Maribel said. “He claims you are mentally unfit. That stress has clouded your judgment. He intends to take everything.”
Before Maxwell could respond, the study door opened again. Lawrence Berrington, the family lawyer, entered with a briefcase and grim posture. “I have confirmed the filings,” he said. “Cassian is attempting an emergency injunction. The hearing is in three hours. If he succeeds, you lose authority over your assets. Possibly the estate.”
Maxwell felt the floor tilt. His voice broke. “How could this happen without me noticing.”
“You trusted the wrong person,” Lawrence said. His tone was not cruel, but it was not forgiving either. “Trust is admirable. It is also dangerous.”