The Qinghe building's lobby sprawls before me like a temple to stolen wealth. Marble floors gleam under crystal chandeliers, each piece probably worth more than most people earn in a year. Security guards in crisp uniforms stand at attention near the elevators. Behind an enormous reception desk, three women in matching blazers field calls and direct visitors.
All of it should have been mine.
I approach the reception desk with confident strides. The woman in the center looks up with a practiced smile.
"Good morning, sir. How may I help you?"
"I have an appointment with Chairman Webb," I lie smoothly. "# Chapter 27 - Aiden Knight from Dragon's Shadow."
Her fingers dance across her keyboard. The smile falters slightly. "I don't see any appointment scheduled for—"
"Check again." I lean forward, letting authority creep into my voice. "This concerns national security matters. Very sensitive."
