Chapter IV: The Arrival of the Convoy
Less than ten minutes later, while Jake was wiping down the front counter and preparing his final checkout, the diner’s front glass windows illuminated with high-beam headlights.
Three black luxury executive SUVs pulled into the parking lot, followed closely by two private security vehicles.
Before Gordon could figure out what was happening, six men in tailored charcoal suits and earpieces entered the diner, securing the perimeter doors. Walking down the center aisle was Arthur Vance, the Chief Executive Officer of the nationwide Hospitality & Real Estate Trust.
Gordon’s face went completely pale. He recognized Arthur instantly from company shareholder broadcasts.
"Mr. Vance!" Gordon stammered, frantically smoothing his apron and running forward with a trembling smile. "Sir, what an incredible honor! What brings the corporate executive board to our branch?"
Arthur Vance didn't spare Gordon a glance. He walked straight past him, stopping at booth four.
In front of every stunned employee and customer in the diner, Arthur stopped, bowed his head, and stood at strict attention before the elderly man in the torn jacket.
"Chairman Vance," Arthur said with absolute reverence. "The board of trustees is fully assembled on the secure line as requested. We are ready for your directive."
Gordon froze as if struck by a freight train. The room fell into dead silence.
Chairman Robert Vance.