CHAPTER 1: THE LOCKOUT
The moment the call ended, everything moved faster than Marcus could ever comprehend.
Inside the hotel, he was still basking in the quiet thrill of control.
“Make sure her access is revoked everywhere,” he told the head of security, straightening his cufflinks like a man who believed he owned the world.
The security chief hesitated.
Just for a second.
Then his phone buzzed.
Another one followed.
And another.
He glanced down—and his face drained of color.
“What is it?” Marcus snapped.
The man swallowed. “Sir… I—I just received an executive override order. Your access… has been suspended.”
Marcus laughed.
Actually laughed.
“Don’t be ridiculous. I signed your contract.”
“Not anymore, sir.”
Silence spread like a crack through glass.
Across the lobby, screens flickered.
Then refreshed.
NEW MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY REGISTERED
Marcus turned slowly.
“What did you just say?”
The doors behind him locked with a sharp, mechanical click.
May you like
The same doors he had just ordered opened to throw his wife out.
Now… they wouldn’t open for him.
