~ HARRISON ~ Finally, three hours were up. I adjusted my tie and headed out of the suite, my thoughts a mix of hope, dread, and anticipation. The Plaza's fancy decor barely registered as I made my way to the entrance, my mind focused on the meeting ahead. When I reached the reception, the doorman greeted me with a polite nod, opening the door to the cool New York air. I stepped out just in time to see a sleek black car pulling to a stop in front of me. A man stepped out of the car and walked toward me. "Mr. Harrison, welcome again to New York. Mr. Brown awaits you," he said as he opened the car door for me. "Thank you," I replied and slid into the backseat. The city was alive with energy, clearly contrasting the quiet turmoil brewing within me. Skyscrapers soared above us, their glass

