I nodded once.

Before I could move toward the door, the elevator behind me groaned.

The heavy iron cables rattled against the shaft.

The indicator light above the door began to glow, showing the car was descending from the penthouse level.

Agent Miller stepped to the side, his hand resting near his hip.

Two more agents entered the lobby, their boots squeaking on the wet concrete floor.

They stood on either side of the elevator doors.

The elevator hit the lobby floor with another heavy thud.

The outer iron gate slid open first, followed by the inner wooden door.

Daniel stood inside the carriage.

His coat was open, and his tie was slightly crooked.

He was holding his phone in his right hand, his thumb scrolling furiously.

His face was the color of old paper.

He did not look up until he stepped out onto the concrete.

When he saw the three agents, he stopped.

“Daniel Hayes?” Agent Miller asked.

Daniel let his hand drop to his side.

“What is the meaning of this?” Daniel asked.

His voice was loud, but it lacked its usual sharp authority.