Chapter 4 - A Mother’s Safe HarborTwo emergency medical technicians carrying a portable stretcher and a sterile delivery kit rushed into the cubicle bay. They moved with quiet efficiency, trained for high-risk field deliveries.
"She's having contractions ninety seconds apart," Elena said quickly, clearing the loose papers from the floor so the medics could set their equipment down. "Her water broke roughly ten minutes ago."
Frank knelt beside Clara, completely disregarding the dust and dampness on the carpet. His eyes held warmth, paternal and reassuring. "Clara. Breathe slowly. You are safe now. No one will touch you or speak down to you ever again."
Clara looked up through sweat-matted hair, tears streaking her pale face. "Frank... I don't understand... the audit reports... I found the missing offshore transfers yesterday... I tried to tell him..."
"I know what you found," Frank said gently, taking her trembling hand in both of his calloused palms. "And I know why he tried to silence you today under the disguise of a performance firing. But your only job right now is to bring your child safely into this world. Let us carry the rest of the world for an hour."
The lead paramedic looked up. "Sir, the baby won't wait for the hospital. The crowning is imminent. We need to deliver here, now."
Ward gestured to the two agents behind him. "Seal the floor. Clear all non-essential personnel to the east conference room. Bring privacy screens immediately."
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Arthur attempted to back away toward his corner office, but an agent stepped smoothly into his path, blocking the doorway with an impassive, stone-faced barrier.
"Mr. Vance," Ward said, his voice deadly level. "You will remain right where you can witness the consequences of your arrogance."
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