Chapter 15 - THE CAPITOL HILL AMBUSH
The annual Congressional Gala in Washington D.C. was a grand affair held inside the historic Union Station ballroom. High-ranking military brass, senators, and corporate titans moved beneath towering stone arches illuminated by gold chandeliers.
Serena arrived as the honored guest of the Department of Defense, wearing a breathtaking dark navy gown that commanded immediate attention from the elite crowd. Caleb accompanied her as her official security escort, his eyes constantly analyzing the perimeter.
As Serena conversed with the Secretary of the Navy, a tall older man with silver hair and a sharp tuxedo stepped into their circle, holding a glass of champagne.
"Ah, the famous Serena Vance," the man purred, bowing his head with practiced charm. "Or should I say, Serena Montgomery?"
Serena’s smile instantly faded, her body stiffening at the mention of her father's original family surname—a name that had been erased from public records thirty years ago.
"And who might you be?" Serena asked, her voice dropping into a cold, protective tone as Caleb stepped closer to her side.
"I am Arthur Sterling, Senior Managing Partner of Sterling Global Holdings," the man introduced himself, his eyes twinkling with a dangerous intellect. "And more importantly, I was your late father's silent partner in Geneva."
May you like
Caleb immediately slid his hand inside his tuxedo jacket, his fingers brushing against his concealed firearm. "Mr. Sterling, you are standing next to a federal witness in an active national security case."
Arthur laughed softly, taking a slow sip of his champagne without showing the slightest bit of concern. "Agent Walker, please. We are surrounded by two hundred politicians whose campaigns I personally fund. Lower your hand before you make a scene."
