Chapter 7 - The Royal Decree
The flight attendant’s voice echoed clearly through the silent cabin, every word hanging heavy in the pressurized air.
"...all existing first-class ticket privileges, corporate partnerships, and executive transit agreements held by Arthur Sterling and Sterling Global Enterprises are hereby revoked, nullified, and terminated with immediate cause."
Arthur Sterling staggered backward, his hip bumping heavily against the armrest of seat 2B. He stared at the flight attendant as if she were speaking a foreign language.
"Revoked?" Sterling whispered, his voice cracking with disbelief. "You can't do that! I have a twenty-million-dollar contract with this airline! I am a major stakeholder in regional logistics! You need my business!"
"We don't need anyone who threatens children or abuses their power on our aircraft, Mr. Sterling," Marcus Bennett replied smoothly, stepping closer to block any escape route. "Mr. Carter was quite explicit in his instructions. He doesn't care about your contract. In fact, he instructed me to personally audit your firm's ties with our subsidiaries before the end of the day."
Sterling’s knees buckled slightly. The financial empire he had spent decades building suddenly felt like it was crumbling beneath his feet, wiped out because of petty arrogance and cruelty toward a twelve-year-old girl.
"Where is Daniel?" Sterling demanded, panic overriding his shock. "I want to speak to him! Let me speak to Daniel Carter right now!"
"Mr. Carter is busy," Marcus said flatly. "And you are no longer welcome on any aircraft bearing our name."
Marcus turned his head slightly and nodded to the two ground security officers standing at the end of the aisle. Without a word, the two burly guards stepped forward, flanking Sterling on either side. Each officer placed a firm, immovable hand on the disgraced executive's shoulders.
"Sir, you need to gather your belongings and accompany us off the aircraft," the lead security officer instructed in a low, authoritative tone.
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"Get your hands off me!" Sterling shouted, his face flushing with humiliation as the surrounding passengers watched in stunned silence. "Do you know who I am? I'll sue this airline into bankruptcy!"
"You're welcome to try," Marcus replied coldly. "Right after you explain to your board of directors why you lost your biggest airline partnership over a first-class seat."
