Chapter 8 - The Uncle Strikes
Julian instructed Sarah to stay in the penthouse with the children, locking down the executive elevator so no one could access the floor. He put on his sharpest bespoke charcoal suit, preparing for corporate warfare.
But as he stepped off the elevator into the bustling main lobby of Vanguard Enterprises, he was met with a scene of absolute chaos.
Three Chicago police officers were standing at the reception desk. With them was a disheveled, red-faced man smelling strongly of stale beer and cheap tobacco.
Marcus Thorne.
"That's his building!" Marcus yelled, pointing a trembling, grimy finger at Julian as he walked out of the elevator. "That billionaire freak has my niece and nephew! He kidnapped them!"
The lobby fell dead silent. Dozens of employees and executives turned to stare at Julian.
An officer stepped forward, resting a hand on his utility belt. "Mr. Vance? We received a report of two missing minors. This gentleman claims they were seen entering your private elevator yesterday afternoon. We’re going to need to search your residence."
Julian didn't miss a beat. He buttoned his suit jacket, projecting an aura of untouchable authority.
"Officer, do you have a warrant?" Julian asked smoothly.
"We have probable cause, sir. A witness saw the girl come in here."
"A witness saw an eight-year-old girl enter a public lobby," Julian corrected. "That does not give you the right to breach my private residence without a judge's signature. Furthermore, Mr. Thorne is currently under investigation for child endangerment and severe neglect."
Marcus lunged forward. "You lying rich piece of trash! Give me back my checks—I mean, my kids!"
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Julian’s security team instantly tackled Marcus, pinning the screaming man to the polished granite floor. The officers drew their tasers, shouting for order.
Julian looked at his watch. It was 9:50 AM. The board meeting was in ten minutes. Richard had clearly tipped Marcus off to Julian's location to create a public scandal right before the vote.
