Chapter 5 - The Downfall of Reed Enterprises
Forty-eight hours later, Carter Reed held a massive press conference at the City Convention Center. Hundreds of journalists, investors, and tech analysts gathered as Carter stood on stage, a victorious smile plastered across his face.
"Today," Carter announced, pointing to a massive projection screen behind him, "Reed Enterprises introduces 'Nexus'—the world's most advanced AI logistics network. We have officially outpaced Apex Global in software innovation."
On stage, Carter initiated the live code deployment.
Suddenly, the projection screen flashed bright red.
Lines of code began corrupting in real-time, replaced by a massive, glowing Apex Global logo. A second later, a video broadcast took over the entire screen.
It was footage of Carter Reed in his office, talking directly to Sarah Jenkins.
"Get me that drive, Sarah... Not only will I give you five million dollars in offshore funds, but I will also name you Vice President of Marketing..."
The room erupted into absolute chaos. Camera flashes blinded the stage as reporters leaped from their seats, shouting questions at the frozen CEO.
"What is the meaning of this?!" Carter screamed, frantically pressing buttons on his podium. "Turn it off! Cut the power!"
The doors at the back of the auditorium swung open.
Ethan Hayes walked down the center aisle, flanked by federal agents and legal representatives. Beside him was Maya Lin—a brilliant, humble lead software engineer from Apex Global who had been working alongside Ethan for months to track Carter's illegal operations.
"Carter Reed," a federal officer announced through a megaphone. "You are under arrest for corporate espionage, bribery, and federal wire fraud."
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Carter slumped against the podium, his face pale as chalk as federal agents marched up the stage and placed him in handcuffs. As Carter was led past Ethan, Ethan leaned in and whispered softly:
"You bought stolen code from a desperate woman, Carter. Did you really think I wouldn't leave a Trojan horse inside it?"
