Chapter 11: The Kitchen Route
The transition from the dining area to the cafe's commercial kitchen was seamless. Marcus distracted the harried line cook by pretending to look for the restroom while Elena and Leo slipped past the stainless-steel prep tables and industrial dishwashers. The air here was humid and smelled of onions and dish soap.
They reached the heavy metal back door that opened onto a narrow, cobblestone alleyway. Marcus pushed the crash bar, and the door swung outward, revealing the quiet back entrance of the federal office building directly across the narrow passage.
"This is it," Marcus whispered, checking the alley in both directions. It was completely empty, save for a row of green recycling bins. "Move fast. Straight to the side entrance with the intercom."
They crossed the cobblestones in seconds. Elena pressed the intercom button beneath a brass plaque marked Office of the Regional Inspector General. A harsh electronic buzz signaled the connection.
"State your business," a crisp, professional voice crackled through the speaker.
"My name is Elena Vance," she said rapidly, her breath fogging in the cold air. "I have digital evidence of fatal medical malpractice and corporate fraud involving St. Jude's Memorial Hospital. I need to speak with Agent Vance immediately."
A heavy silence hung over the intercom for several agonizing seconds. Then, the electronic lock on the heavy oak security door clicked open with a welcoming thud.
"Third floor, room 302," the voice instructed.
May you like
They hurried inside, leaving the cold, dangerous city behind them as the heavy door sealed shut. The interior of the federal building was quiet, sterile, and reassuringly secure. Polished marble floors reflected the recessed lighting, and armed guards stood quietly near the main elevator bank.
Marcus let out a long breath, adjusting his trench coat. "We made it."
