The competition was held at the National Convention Center . When Julian and I arrived , the contestants were already lining up to enter . We didn't go in immediately , instead settling into the backstage monitoring room . Julian had arranged this beforehand using his connections ; the head of security for the Convention Center was an old comrade of my dad's . On the massive monitor wall , dozens of small screens displayed live , 360 - degree footage from inside the competition hall . I spotted Serena at once . She was sitting in the very center , looking a bit nervous , constantly glancing around , her leg trembling with agitation . " What's she looking for ? " Julian asked , frowning . " A signal source . " I watched the big screen , my voice cold . " She's probably waiting for someone to adjust their equipment . " 11:58 Sat , Oct 18 < The bell for the competition to begin rang . he truth !" " I suggested you go abroad because I was afraid they'd get desperate and do something to harm you! Mr. Davis is capable of anything! " Julian grabbed my hand , his grip surprisingly strong , making my hand ache faintly . " Aspen , trust me . How could your brother ever hurt you ? Don't eighteen years of love mean anything ? " I looked at his red eyes , and the hardest ice in my heart slowly began to melt . It turned out I wasn't fighting alone . It turned out someone was still standing with me . " I found a five hundred thousand dollar transfer from the Davis Group to Brenda Hayes's account, three months ago ." 11:58 Sat , Oct 18 M < : Hearing my words , Julian's expression finally calmed, and he slowly sat back in his seat . " That five hundred thousand is proof of their deal ! " " Not enough . " I shook my head , frustrated . " With just a transfer record , they could claim it was a loan . We need more powerful evidence , something undeniable , to ensure they can never rise again . " Julian looked at me , his eyes shining . " So , you have a plan ? " I curved my lips into a smile , leaning forward slightly , and slowly outlined my idea . After listening , Julian gasped , looking at me like I was a monster . " Aspen , are you ... are you sure you want to do this ? It's too risky ! " " Can a play be brilliant without a climax ? " I picked up the lemon water in front of me , took a sip , the cold liquid sliding down my throat . " Julian , you just need to do as I say . The rest , leave it to me ." I smirked , my gaze slowly shifting to the window . The day of the National Physics Competition Finals had finally arrived . My " departure abroad " was also scheduled for this very day . Early in the morning , I pulled my suitcase downstairs . 82 11:58 Sat , Oct 18 M F:. 82 The whole family was there . They planned to drop Serena off at the competition venue first , then take me to the airport . Eleanor grabbed my hand , tears welling up again . " Aspen , take care of yourself over there . Remember to call Mom often ." Richard patted my shoulder , looking like he wanted to say something , but in the end , didn't . Serena stood nearby , wearing a brand new dress , her face alight with poorly disguised excitement and triumph . " Sister , take care . When I win the gold medal , I'll send you pictures . " I smiled , my expression indifferent as I looked at her . " Alright . I'll be waiting . " Julian walked over , taking my suitcase with practiced ease . " I'll take Aspen to the airport . You guys go to the competition venue first , don't be late . " My parents nodded and left with Serena . As the car drove out of the mansion , Julian immediately hit the gas , turned the wheel , and sped towards the competition venue . I turned to him and asked , " Everything arranged ? " " Don't worry " Julian handed me a tiny earpiece , an irrepressible smile playing on his lips . " Equipment's been tested , signal jammer's ready . If she dares to use it , we'll catch her red - handed . " 11:58 Sat , Oct 18 I put on the earpiece , leaned back in my seat , and closed my eyes . Serena , Brenda Hayes , Mr. Davis . Your elaborately staged drama is about to end . And I , Aspen Blackwood , am the director who decides the finale . 7 8