Chapter 14
The lobby of the Apex Holdings skyscraper was a masterpiece of modern architecture, all gleaming steel and polished marble. Clara stood nervously at the reception desk, looking entirely out of place. Her elegant, jewel-toned holiday dress had been replaced by a wrinkled trench coat, and her usually pristine hair was tied in a messy knot. "I need to speak with Bennett Sterling," Clara pleaded, her voice trembling. "I am his sister. Please, it is an absolute emergency." Two massive security guards flanked her instantly, their faces impassive. Before they could escort her out, the elevator chimed. Marcus stepped into the lobby, his dark suit perfectly tailored. "Mr. Sterling will see you, Clara," Marcus said coldly. "Follow me. And keep your hands where I can see them." Clara was escorted up to the penthouse. When the doors opened, she found Bennett sitting behind a massive desk. He looked every inch the billionaire titan, exuding a quiet, terrifying authority. "Bennett, please," Clara wept, rushing forward before stopping at a glare from Marcus. "I'm begging you. Dad is losing his mind. My kids have nowhere to sleep. Just give me my trust back!" "You laughed," Bennett stated softly, the memory of her sharp, mocking laughter echoing in the room. "You sat in that room and laughed while my daughter cried over a piece of garbage." "I'm sorry!" Clara sobbed, dropping to her knees. "I'll do anything. I'll tell you exactly where Silas is."
