Von stood near the reception desk, taking in the digital billboards that played looping clips of Vanguard's latest campaigns.
The soft chime of the private elevator pulled his attention.
Arthur Pendelton, the CEO of Vanguard, stepped out into the lobby.
He was a sharp-looking man in his late fifties, wearing a brown suit. He was currently checking his gold watch, looking slightly stressed, but the moment he spotted Von, a welcoming smile stretched across his face.
"Von! My boy!" Arthur called out, striding over and extending both hands. "What an absolute pleasure to have you in the building."
Von easily recognized the CEO of the very first brand that had backed him. Emily had briefed him about the man, and Von could still remember her words clearly.
