CHAPTER 22
The city of New York welcomed us with a torrential downpour,
rain washing over the crowded streets.
Federal agents met us directly on the tarmac,
escorting us to a secure government vehicle.
"Julian Vance has barricaded himself,
inside the penthouse of Apex headquarters,"
the lead agent informed us grimly.
"He has taken several board members hostage,
demanding safe passage out of the country."
My heart gripped with sudden fear,
thinking of the innocent people inside.
"He is using my company as a fortress,"
I said,
my anger burning hotter than the fear.
"I am going in there,
agent."
"It's too dangerous,
Ms. Carter,"
the agent protested,
shaking his head firmly.
"He is armed,
and he has nothing left to lose."
"He wants the ledger,"
I explained,
holding up the document from my father's journal.
"He won't shoot me,
as long as he thinks I have the only copy."
"I can distract him,
allowing your tactical team to enter from the roof."
Liam looked at me,
his eyes full of terror but also deep respect.
"I am not leaving your side,
Emily,"
he stated,
his voice leaving no room for refusal.
"If you go into that room,
I am walking right next to you."
The agent reluctantly agreed,
realizing our plan offered the best chance of success.
We arrived at the headquarters,
the building surrounded by police cruisers and flashing lights.
The lobby was completely evacuated,
resembling a silent ghost town.
We took the private executive elevator,
the numbers ticking up toward the top floor.
The doors opened with a soft chime,
stepping into a scene of absolute tension.
Julian Vance stood in the center of the office,
holding a sleek black pistol in his hand.
Three board members were tied to chairs,
their faces pale with absolute terror.
"Ah,
the return of the prodigal daughter,"
Vance sneered,
pointing the weapon directly at my heart.
"You brought the ledger,
I presume?"
"I have it right here,
Julian,"
I said,
holding the leather document in the air.
"Let the hostages go,
and it is yours."
"You are in no position to negotiate,
girl,"
he hissed,
his eyes wild with desperation.
"Give it to me now,
or I start executing them one by one!"
I stepped forward slowly,
May you like
keeping his attention entirely on me,
waiting for the tactical team to make their move.
