The security token used to authorize the overwrite had a unique serial number.

I zoomed in on the hex code of the security token.

My breath caught in my throat.

The token belonged to a workstation registered to Bennett Urban Systems in Boston.

Specifically, it was assigned to the office of the Chief Executive Officer.

“What is it?” Julian asked, noticing my expression.

“He used his own personal administrative key,” I said, a slow smile spreading across my face.

“Adrian forgot that when we split the server licenses, I kept the master registry.”

“The digital signature points directly back to his computer.”

Before I could say more, my phone vibrated again.

A new notification popped up on the screen, this one from the Chicago Department of Buildings.

It was an automated warning.

The system had detected a structural mismatch in the waterfront design.

The permit application was officially flagged for immediate suspension.

I looked up and saw Adrian and Sterling walking back into the ballroom.

Adrian looked relieved, a smirk playing on his lips as he caught my eye from across the room.