“Actually,” a new voice interrupted, “we can prove all of it.”
James Chen walked in carrying a thick binder.
“Your sister’s AI system has been tracking your firm’s transactions for years. The evidence is comprehensive.”
“Who is this?” Father demanded.
“James Chen, head of strategic partnerships at Neuroch Solutions.” He handed each of them a document. “And these are your options.”
I watched them read, seeing the exact moment they understood their situation.
Mother’s hands trembled. Father’s face went ashen. Michael looked like he might faint.
“Option one,” I explained. “We submit everything to the SEC tomorrow. You face federal charges, asset seizure, and public humiliation.”
“Option two,” James continued, “you sign these papers now. Transfer all family assets to Neuroch’s new investment division. We handle the SEC quietly, restructure the debt, and save what we can of the Bennett name.”
“You want us to give you control of everything.” Michael’s voice cracked.
“I already have control,” I corrected. “I’m offering you a chance to keep some dignity and maybe…” I paused. “Learn how to build something legitimate for once.”
Mother looked up from the papers.
“These terms… we’d be working for you.”
“You’d be working with my company,” I clarified. “Father’s experience in client relations could be valuable, properly supervised. Mother’s social connections might help our charitable foundation. And Michael…”
He flinched as I turned to him.
“You’ll start in compliance, learning banking regulations from the other side. Minimum wage, no benefits for at least a year.”
“This is revenge,” he spat.
“No.” I sat back at my desk. “This is rehabilitation, and your only chance to avoid prison.”
Father stood slowly, decades of corporate negotiations visible in his stance.
“And if we sign, you’ll protect the family name?”
“I’ll protect what’s worth protecting,” I replied. “Starting with the thousands of clients your son’s firm has deceived. They get made whole first.”
“Time-sensitive offer,” James added. “SEC’s waiting for our call.”
Mother wiped a tear, careful not to smudge her makeup.
“Alexandra, when did you become so powerful? Ruthless? Successful?”
I smiled slightly.
“I always was. You just never bothered to see it.”
One by one, they signed.