Chapter 5 - Breaching the Tower
The three black SUVs screeched to a halt beneath the polished glass canopy of Sterling Tower. Rain hammered against the granite driveway. Marcus was the first to step out, opening an umbrella above Arthur as the older man emerged, his dark suit impeccable, his polished cane hitting the pavement with a sharp, resounding tap.
The building’s front doors slid open, and four private security guards in navy uniforms stepped out, attempting to block the grand lobby entrance.
""Private property, gentlemen,"" the lead guard announced, his hand resting near his holster. ""Mr. Sterling has instructed that no visitors are allowed tonight.""
Arthur Vance did not even slow his stride. He walked straight toward the guard, his towering presence and piercing grey gaze projecting an aura of immense authority that made the younger man involuntarily step back.
""Step aside, son,"" Arthur said in a low, resonant rumble. ""Or call your insurance provider. You have three seconds to decide if Julian Sterling's salary covers your medical bills.""
Marcus and three tactical operators moved forward simultaneously, their hands visible beneath their coats. The lead guard took one look at the pins on Marcus's lapel, recognized the emblem of Vance International, and his complexion paled. He swallowed hard and reached for his radio.
""Let them through,"" the guard muttered into his microphone, stepping back against the polished marble pillar. ""Open the express elevator to the penthouse.""
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Arthur stepped into the glass-walled elevator, his cane planted firmly on the floor. Marcus keyed in the override code provided by the terrified concierge. The doors slid shut, and the elevator began its silent, rapid ascent into the sky.
Arthur watched the city lights shrink below him. Inside his chest, a tempest raged, yet his face was as carved granite. In his mind, he remembered holding Claire when she was five years old, promising her that no harm would ever touch her under his watch. He had broken that promise once. He would not break it twice.
