章 21: chapter 21

The accident 

I strode into the company, my mind still replaying the hazy memories from years ago. Shadows of the past lingered my parents, the accident, and that masked figure who haunted my life with unanswered questions. I was determined to bury those memories today, at least for a few hours, and get my focus back on work.

The company was quiet as I headed to the VIP elevator, eager to get to my office. Sliding my card, I waited for the soft beep to signal access, but nothing happened. Frowning, I swiped the card again, only to get an error message flashing in red ACCESS DENIED.

Frustration gnawed at me as I tried again, but the same rejection flashed. I glanced around, as if someone would step in and explain, but I was alone. Every part of this building, every protocol, was familiar to me. This was my company as much as anyone's, and my card had always granted me access to these floors without fail.