The elderly man in the wheelchair stopped drinking. His frail demeanor sharpened into something intensely focused. He looked at Toby's badge, then turned his gaze toward Simmons.
Without a word, the old man reached inside his weathered brown coat and retrieved an unassuming smartphone.
He tapped a single contact and held the speaker to his ear.
Chapter III: The Call to the Top
The connection was answered on the very first ring.
"Bring the CEO," the old man said, his voice quiet, calm, and carrying an undeniable, sovereign authority.
There was a brief pause on the line before the voice on the other end responded with urgent deference.
"Yes. I’m at Terminal 3. Right now."
The old man lowered the phone and slid it back into his pocket.
Simmons let out a patronizing scoff, shaking his head. "Look, old timer, you can call whoever you want, but this is a private airline ground operations matter. This kid is officially terminated."
Toby gently placed a hand on the wheelchair. "Don't worry about it, sir. I'll make sure you get safely to your gate before I turn in my badge."