Chapter 5 - The Lion's Den
The Sterling compound sat on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, a sprawling fortress of glass, steel, and blood money.
Sarah drove up to the main gates alone in a rented sedan. The armed private security guards searched her vehicle, patted her down, and confiscated her cell phone and sidearm. They didn't find the microscopic transmitter embedded in the collar of her jacket.
She was escorted into the grand study. The walls were lined with rare books and oil paintings. Arthur Sterling sat behind a massive oak desk, swirling a glass of expensive scotch. Greg and Marcus stood by the fireplace, looking incredibly nervous.
"Sarah," Arthur said, his voice smooth and paternal. "I must admit, I am surprised to see you. After your little stunt at the motel last night, I assumed you were halfway to Mexico."
"I ran because your corrupt cops shot at me," Sarah said, keeping her voice trembling just enough to sound terrified. "I have no money, Arthur. My bank accounts are frozen. I can't even get in to see my own son."
"That is the tragedy of fighting a war you cannot win," Arthur sighed, taking a sip of scotch. "You are a smart woman, Sarah. A decorated soldier. Surely you realize that Oakhaven belongs to me. You have an audio recording that is entirely circumstantial. I have the mayor, the judges, and the police."
"What do you want?" Sarah pleaded, playing the role perfectly.
"I want the USB drive Maya stole," Arthur demanded, leaning forward. "I know she took it. And I know she gave it to you. Hand over the drive, sign a non-disclosure agreement, and grant Greg full, uncontested custody of Ethan. If you do this, I will give you five million dollars, and you can disappear and start a new life."
Greg stepped forward, his eyes pleading. "Take the deal, Sarah. Please. It's the only way you walk away from this."
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Sarah looked at her husband with absolute disgust. "You sold our son for a corner office."
Arthur laughed, a cold, empty sound. "Loyalty to the empire requires sacrifice, Sarah. Greg understood that. Just like Marcus understood that sometimes, loose ends need to be tied up. Like Maya's little brother."
