Richard stared at the red notification text glowing on his phone screen with utter disbelief and growing horror.
The foreclosure notice on his flagship office building had just been finalized by the state court clerk.
His primary lender had sold the entire debt portfolio to an offshore holding company owned by Matteo.
Richard: This... this has to be some kind of system error!
Richard: You don't have this kind of money!
Matteo: I built something real while you were spending my father's money.
Matteo: I never forgot how you threw us out of our home.
Richard: Matteo, please, we are family!
Richard: We can work out a reasonable payment plan!
Matteo: You showed no mercy to my mother when she was sick.
Matteo: You gave her three days to pack up her belongings.
Arthur Vance stepped between the two men and beckoned for two internal venue security officers to approach.
Executive: Richard Hayes, your credentials for tonight's gala have been revoked.
Executive: Please leave the premises immediately.
Richard: You can't throw me out!
Richard: I donated fifty thousand dollars to this foundation last month!
Executive: Mr. Matteo just donated ten million dollars to the local children's hospital fund.
The surrounding guests gasped softly as the news spread through the private lounge like wildfire.
The security officers took Richard by both arms and escorted him down the grand staircase in front of everyone.
Matteo watched his uncle walk away without feeling any bitter triumph in his heart.
He felt only a quiet sense of peace because justice had finally caught up with a cruel man.
Arthur patted Matteo on the back and handed him a glass of sparkling water.
Executive: Let us head inside the ballroom, Mr. Matteo.
Executive: Everyone is eager to hear your keynote speech tonight.
Matteo: Thank you, Arthur.
Matteo: Let's make sure this night helps the people who truly need it.