---- Chapter 22 Liam looked at Ethan, crumpled against the wall, clutching his broken hand, a pathetic, self-destructive figure. "He's a mess," Liam said to Ava, his voice low. "And a menace. I'll talk to Father. We need to get him out of New York. For his own good. And for ours." He was already thinking strategically, protecting their peace. Ava nodded. "Do what you think is best." She leaned into Liam, drawing strength from his solidity. They turned and walked into the brownstone, leaving Ethan alone on the sidewalk. He watched them go, the door closing with a decisive click, shutting him out. Again. He eventually made his way back to his empty, perfectly restored loft. It felt colder than ever. He looked around at the familiar objects, Ava's favorite books on the shelves, the art she'd chosen on the walls. It was all a mockery. He remembered her laughter, the way she used to hum as she cooked, the comforting weight of her head on his shoulder as they watched movies. All gone. All his own fault. He wished, with a desperation that was soul-crushing, for a second chance. Just one. To go back, to do things differently. To choose her, truly choose her, from the start. But time, he was learning, was a cruel and unforgiving master. A few days later, two stern-faced men, employees of Carter Holdings, arrived at Ethan's loft. They were polite but firm. "Mr. ---- Carter, your father has arranged for you to take an extended sabbatical. To manage a minor family holding. Abroad." "Abroad?" Ethan scoffed. "You mean exile." "Your flight leaves this evening," one of the men said, unmoved. "Your bags have been packed." Ethan refused. He resisted. He argued. But he was powerless. His father's orders, backed by Liam, were absolute. He was forcibly escorted from his apartment, from his city. As they drove him to the airport, he was silent, his face a mask of cold, impotent rage. He would not accept this. He would fight. He would find a way back. The agents, perhaps feeling a sliver of pity, tried to offer advice. "Make the best of it, Mr. Carter. A new start." Ethan wasn't listening. He was already planning. Ata red light, in a moment of distraction, Ethan did something desperate, impulsive. He threw open the car door and bolted, disappearing into the crowded New York streets before the surprised agents could react. He was a fugitive from his own family. He went underground, using burner phones, cash, calling on old, forgotten contacts who owed him favors. He was surprisingly resourceful when pushed. He needed allies. He needed a plan. He would not be banished. He would not give up Ava. A week later, he received a discreet notification. The annual Carter Family Foundation Thanksgiving dinner. A major society event. Everyone would be there. His parents. Liam. ---- And Ava. It was his chance.