Chapter 8 - The Trial of Loyalty
The Plaza Hotel’s grand ballroom on Fifth Avenue was packed with six hundred prominent shareholders, corporate executives, and international media reporters. Bright television cameras flashed continuously as classical music echoed under giant crystal chandeliers.
Standing at the polished glass podium on stage was Marcus Russo. Dressed in a dark tuxedo, holding a set of stolen blueprints, he smiled arrogantly into the news cameras.
"Ladies and gentlemen of the press," Marcus announced smoothly, his voice booming through the speakers. "Tonight, I present the future of Russo Industries—a revolutionary zero-emission energy grid that will transform global power!"
The crowd broke into enthusiastic applause.
Outside the hotel entrance, two black armored SUVs pulled up to the curb.
Dominic stepped out first, looking dark, majestic, and terrifying in a custom black tuxedo. He walked around the vehicle and opened the door for Olivia.
Olivia stepped onto the sidewalk wearing an elegant pale-blue formal dress provided by Mrs. Gable, her long brown hair styled in soft waves, her posture proud and unshakeable. Beside them walked Professor Whitman, carrying a leather briefcase containing the original ultraviolet journal and the verified legal trust deeds.
Four hotel security officers tried to block the ballroom entrance, but Dominic’s broad frame and commanding presence pushed right past them, forcing the heavy oak double doors open!
The heavy doors slammed against the walls with a thunderous CRASH that silenced the entire ballroom!
Dominic stepped into the center aisle, his voice carrying an authority like thunder that cut through the microphone system:
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"That research doesn't belong to you, Marcus!"
The entire ballroom turned in breathless shock as national television cameras swung around to focus on Dominic Russo and the fourteen-year-old girl standing by his side!
