*The Penthouse*

Sean's hand guided me back through the marbled hallways to the elevator, but as we approached, the doors swung open, and we stood face-to-face with the appraiser, Justinian.

"Oh, good evening Marcus," said Justinian.

I felt the grip on the back of my neck suddenly tighten, pinching off the blood flow to my head. I arched and reached up to grab his hand, trying to loosen the tension, but Sean didn't seem to notice. He was distracted by ...