chapter 24- Lies and loyalty (II)

Stephen rushed into the lobby of the Empire Building, his heart pounding with adrenaline. The urgency of the situation drove him forward, his mind replaying the cryptic phone call and his decision to trust the mysterious ally's instructions.

As he sprinted down the corridor towards his office, Stephen's footsteps echoed off the polished marble floors. He skidded to a halt as he reached the door, breathless and on edge. Pushing it open, he entered cautiously, scanning the dimly lit room.

There, illuminated by the glow of multiple screens, stood a figure hunched over Stephen's computer. "Victor!" Stephen's voice rang out, sharp with accusation and urgency.

The figure froze, hands hovering over the keyboard. In a swift motion, he lunged towards the nearest window, desperate to escape. But before he could unlatch it, Stephen tackled him from behind, crashing into the desk with a grunt.

The figure retaliated with a powerful punch to Stephen's face, stunning him momentarily. Enduring t