Chapter 3: The Tide Turns
The front doors swung open, but it wasn't a customer. It was Mr. Henderson, the store manager, a man usually known for his calm, collected demeanor. Today, he looked like he had seen a ghost. His face was pale, and he was moving with a frantic, uncharacteristic speed.
Marcus turned around, a smug grin plastered on his face. "Mr. Henderson! You’re just in time. This woman was causing a disturbance, trying to touch the merchandise—"
Henderson didn't even look at Marcus. He brushed past the guard as if he were nothing more than a coat rack. He stopped dead in front of Elara.
"Ms. Vance," Henderson said, his voice trembling slightly. "I am so incredibly sorry. The report was supposed to be filed this morning. I had no idea—"
Marcus froze. His grin wavered. "Ms... Vance?"
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Elara finally set the handbag down. "Marcus seems to think that badges grant people the right to decide who belongs in this store, Mr. Henderson. He seems to think he’s the owner."
Henderson’s eyes shot to Marcus, and for the first time, the manager’s expression was one of pure, icy fury. "You have no idea what you’ve done."
