Chapter 7: A: Sneak into Office

👉 [Previous Decision]: You chose Option A – Have Marcus grant access to Arthur’s private office for the final confrontation.

“Arthur’s private office,” Marcus said, his voice hard. “It’s soundproofed. Lead-lined walls. He uses it for his most sensitive calls. No one will hear a thing in there. Perfect for a private conversation.”

“And for an ambush,” I countered, a knot forming in my stomach.

Marcus shook his head. “I know the secret passages. We’ll be in before he even knows you’re there. And once you’re inside, I’ll activate a timed press release with the letter.”

We waited until late at night. The brownstone was a mausoleum. Marcus led me through a series of hidden service corridors, dusty and narrow, that snaked through the walls of the building. We emerged behind a large, antique bookcase that silently swung open.

Beyond it lay Arthur Pendelton’s private study. Plush carpet, dark wood, heavy drapes. A massive mahogany desk dominated the room. The air was thick with the scent of old leather and wealth.

“Alright,” Marcus whispered, handing me a small, waterproof digital copy of the letter. “Get in there. I’ll lock it from the outside. The press release will go out at precisely 1:00 AM. That gives you twenty minutes.”

He closed the secret passage, the bookcase clicking softly back into place. I was alone in the room, the letter, my only weapon.

Moments later, I heard the distinct sound of heavy engines outside. A black SUV. Then another. Headlights swept across the tall windows.

Through a small gap in the drapes, I saw Evelyn Pendelton standing on the curb, talking into a walkie-talkie. Nearby, Sheriff Thaddeus Pendelton’s cruiser idled, its engine rumbling softly. They were surrounding the building, effectively cutting off any escape.

I was in Arthur’s lair, isolated.