“The statute of limitations on simple bribery might’ve been a gray area,” Agent Harris said, her voice sharp as glass.

“But we pulled the manifests for the Summit contracts you awarded Horizon twenty years ago. The money you laundered through Vivian’s account wasn’t just kickbacks. You authorized Horizon to use severely substandard, non-compliant steel and drywall in the construction of the St. Jude Children’s Hospital wing.”

Susan choked on a sob, clutching her pearls.

“You endangered thousands of lives for a payout,” Sterling continued, without mercy. “You’re terminated with cause. Your pension is voided. Summit is cooperating fully with the federal indictment — grand fraud and criminal negligence.”

Mark sobbed, crawling forward, reaching toward Sterling’s polished shoes. “Please — I’ll pay it back. I’ll testify against Richard! Don’t ruin me!”

“I had nothing to do with the materials!” Richard screamed as Harris calmly unclipped her handcuffs. “That was my foreman’s fault!”