Merrick's face contorts in a mixture of fury and panic. "Get out! This is none of your business!" he snarls at Mr. Henderson and his men, his grip tightening on the gun pointed at Alejandro's head. Mr. Henderson remains unfazed, his steely gaze fixed on Merrick. "When the CEO of Sterling Corporation is involved, Mr. Merrick, it becomes very much my business. And I suggest you lower that weapon before things get… unpleasant." His two companions take a step forward, their postures radiating quiet menace. The dynamic in the warehouse has shifted dramatically. Merrick, who held all the power just moments ago, is now facing an unexpected challenge. He’s outnumbered, and the arrival of Sterling’s people signals that Isabella isn’t as isolated as he’d hoped. Isabella seizes the opportunity. "L

