Chapter 8 - Infiltrating the Fortress
The Grand Capitol Hotel was fortified like a fortress. Armed guards patrolled the perimeter, and every guest entering the main ballroom was checked against a digital guest list. Up on the second-floor balcony, Senator Sterling was holding court, surrounded by corrupt politicians, board members, and news reporters.
Beside him sat Sabrina Sterling, her broken jaw wired shut and covered in heavy makeup, her eyes filled with bitter hatred as she watched the crowd.
"In thirty minutes, ladies and gentlemen," Senator Sterling announced into a microphone, "we will finalize the temporary transfer of Caldwell Shipping to ensure stability during this tragic family crisis."
Down in the underground parking garage, a black luxury sedan pulled into a VIP bay.
The door opened. Ethan Caldwell stepped out, dressed in a sleek, immaculate tuxedo—looking every bit the billionaire heir. Beside him was Grace, wearing a floor-length dark velvet gown that concealed three concealed tactical blades and a micro-recorder belt.
"Remember the plan," Grace whispered as they walked toward the private elevator. "I handle security. You hold the floor until I broadcast the evidence."
"Be careful, Grace," Ethan said softly, reaching out to gently touch her hand. "I can't lose you too."
Grace met his eyes, a subtle smile breaking through her hardened exterior. "They should be worried about me, Ethan. Not the other way around."
They stepped into the elevator. When the doors opened on the penthouse level, four Sterling guards stepped forward to intercept them.
"Mr. Caldwell, you are not permitted—"
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Grace didn't let him finish. She grabbed the lead guard’s wrist, drove her elbow into his ribs, and swept his leg, throwing him into the second guard. She smashed the third guard’s head against the brass elevator frame, knocking him out cold, while Ethan knocked the fourth guard down with a heavy right hook.
"Go, Ethan!" Grace said, taking the security pass key from a fallen guard. "I’m heading to the broadcast control room!"
