CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SIX – THE EXPOSURE

As Aiden left, looking slightly more at ease, Cassius sank back into his chair. He had barely begun to process this new threat when Evelyn's voice came through the intercom again. "Mr. Keppler, Dr. Eliza Hartley is here to see you. She says it's urgent." Cassius suppressed a groan. The head of R&D showing up right after Aiden's news couldn't be good. "Send her in, Evelyn." Dr. Hartley strode in, her usual composed demeanor tinged with an edge of agitation. Without preamble, she placed a crisp, cream-colored envelope on Cassius' desk. "This arrived for me this morning," she said, her voice tight. "I thought you should see it." Cassius picked up the envelope, his stomach sinking as he recognized the embossed logo of Trent Enterprises. He pulled out the letter, scanning its contents quickly. "Dear Dr. Hartley," it began in flowing script, "I hope this letter finds you well. I've long admired your groundbreaking work in sustainable energy systems, and I believe your talents are being