"Ding."
The soft, melodic chime of the arrival bell sliced through the quiet hum of the machinery. The polished steel doors of the elevator slid open smoothly, revealing the destination. Julian Sterling stepped out into the VIP waiting lounge, a space meticulously designed in a luxurious and sophisticated Art Deco style. The atmosphere was immediately distinct from the world below. Here, the air seemed stiller, cooler, and infinitely more expensive. Warm, golden light cascaded down from intricate crystal chandeliers suspended from the high ceiling, their prisms scattering illumination that was absorbed by the thick, plush velvet carpet underfoot, creating a sensation of absolute silence and supreme comfort with every step he took.
He swept his gaze around the expansive area, his eyes adjusting to the ambient lighting, and quickly spotted the person he was looking for. Lucas Hill was seated comfortably on a caramel-colored cowhide sofa nestled in a private corner of the room.
