Chapter 6 - The Trojan Horse Initiative
The city council hearing was scheduled for the following Tuesday. It was a classic power play—scheduled during the busy week when most activists were at their jobs, minimizing the chance of public outcry. Avery knew the Sterlings’ playbook better than anyone. They wanted this done quietly, efficiently, and without resistance.
“They’re counting on you to stay hidden, Avery,” Elena said, loading her gear into the trunk of a rented sedan. “They think you’re in a hotel room somewhere, crying over your lost life. They have no idea you’re coming for the council.”
“That’s exactly what I’m counting on,” Avery replied. She had traded her designer clothes for a sharp, anonymous business suit. Her hair was pulled into a severe bun, and she wore glasses that obscured her piercing eyes. She looked like just another ambitious professional in the sea of suits crowding City Hall.
Inside the hearing chamber, the atmosphere was sterile. Avery sat in the back, her heart hammering against her ribs as the Council President, a man whose campaign had been heavily funded by Sterling Financial, called the session to order.
“Item 402: Reclassification of the Valley District zoning,” the President announced, his voice droning on.
Avery stood up before the motion could even be seconded. “Point of order!” she called out, her voice cutting through the stuffy room.
The room went silent. The Council President peered over his spectacles, clearly annoyed by the interruption. “This is a closed hearing for registered stakeholders, ma’am. Who are you?”
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“I am Avery Sterling,” she declared, walking toward the microphone. A ripple of gasps went through the room. “And I am the sole heir to the Valley District land you are currently discussing for illegal rezoning.”
The President blanched. He looked toward the side entrance where two private security guards stood—Victoria Sterling’s men. They were already moving toward her.
