Chapter 6 - MIDNIGHT AT THE MARINA
A heavy fog hung low over the Hudson River as three dark SUVs pulled up outside the security gates of the North Cove Marina.
The water was black and silent, reflecting the distant lights of the Manhattan skyline. Rows of luxury yachts gently swayed against the wooden docks.
"Storage unit #402 is located under the main pier house," Julian whispered, checking a digital map of the marina layout on his phone. "It’s a climate-controlled locker facility for yacht owners."
"Miller, take two officers around the perimeter," Daniel instructed, his jacket collar pulled up against the cold wind. "Julian and I will take the lower walkway."
"Keep your radios on," Miller warned, signaling to his men. "If you see Richard, do not engage. He has nothing left to lose."
Daniel nodded, though his hands balled into tight fists inside his coat pockets.
He and Julian quietly descended the concrete stairs leading down to the lower dock level. The smell of salt water and diesel fuel filled the damp air.
They navigated through the dark labyrinth of storage lockers until they reached door #402.
The heavy padlock on the latch had already been freshly cut. It hung loosely from the iron ring.
Julian reached for his belt and drew a compact handgun, slipping the safety off. He signaled for Daniel to stay behind him.
Julian kicked the door open.
The small storage room was dimly lit by a single hanging bulb. Boxes were overturned, papers scattered across the concrete floor.
Standing in the center of the room, knee-deep in documents, was Richard Sterling. He was shoving files into a black leather duffel bag.
Hearing the door burst open, Richard whipped around, pulling a small silver revolver from his waistband.
"Back off!" Richard screamed, his eyes wild and bloodshot. "Don't come any closer!"
Julian pointed his weapon directly at Richard’s chest. "Drop the gun, Richard! It’s over! The police have the perimeter surrounded!"
Richard laughed—a harsh, unhinged sound that rang off the metal walls. "Over? It’s not over until I get what’s mine! I built Vance Logistics while Daniel was mourning his dead wife! I earned that money!"
"You murdered her," Daniel’s voice cut through the damp air as he stepped out from behind Julian, stepping directly into the line of fire.
Richard stared at Daniel, a bitter sneer twisting his face. "She found out about the offshore transfers four years ago, Daniel. She was going to tell you. I couldn't let her ruin everything."
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"You monster," Daniel growled, taking a step forward.
"Don't move!" Richard raised the revolver, leveling it straight at Daniel’s forehead. "You think you won today because your brat poked a hole in a piece of foam? I still have access to the master codes! I can wipe your company’s assets off the face of the earth with one click!"
