Chapter 3: The Hammer Falls

Arthur asserts his new authority by neutralizing the Sterling security team and crashing the board meeting to expose their 40% dredging markup. He then proceeds to the North Pier tender auction, where he forces the disqualification of the Sterling bid, shattering Marcus and Elena's public standing and signaling the start of a much larger conflict.

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The Hammer Falls

The Sterling Group lobby was a cathedral of brushed steel and aggressive marble, designed to make anyone without a seven-figure salary feel like an architectural error. Arthur Vance didn't feel small. He felt like the man holding the demolition permit. He walked toward the elevators, his stride measured, his suit a sharp contrast to the frantic energy of the reception staff.

Before he reached the turnstiles, a wall of navy-blue blazers intercepted him. Halloway, the head of security, stepped forward, his palm resting instinctively on his belt. His face was a mask of practiced, professional disdain.

"Mr. Vance," Halloway said, his voice echoing in the cavernous space. "You’re trespassing. The board meeting is private, and you are no longer on the access list. Turn ar

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