Flashlight beam cuts the dark. Dust floats in the cone of light. Elena steps toward the back wall. The steel cable lies severed. Clean cut. Not frayed. She kneels. Runs two fingers over the ends. Smooth. Tool marks. She pulls out her phone. Dials security.
"Sweep the perimeter," she says. "Check the loading bay. Check the roof access. Check the fire exit. Report everything."
"Copy," the guard replies. Radio crackles. Heavy boots hit concrete. Doors slam. Flashlights sweep the walls.
"Base to Unit One. Seal the west stairwell. Do not let anyone down."
"Unit One. West stair is clear. Found pry marks on the fire door. Someone forced the latch."
"Log it. Move to the electrical closet. Check the main breaker box. Do not touch the wires. Just report the position."
"Copy. Moving."
Heavy breathing echoes from the front. Door swings open. Sophie runs in. Tablet clutched to her chest. Hair pulled back. Coat open.
