The Tipping Point

Tony Sterling’s presence filled the interrogation room with an almost palpable shift in power. Unlike Diana Frost’s artificial polish, Sterling carried the weathered confidence of someone who had navigated the darkest corners of Hayes family business for decades. His silver hair and well-worn leather briefcase spoke of experience that couldn’t be bought – only earned.

“Detective Morrison,” Sterling’s voice was surprisingly gentle, though his eyes were sharp. “I believe we’re done here. Mr. Hayes will be leaving with me now.”

Morrison’s face reddened. “Now wait just a minute—”

“I’ve already spoken with Captain Reynolds,” Sterling continued, as if Morrison hadn’t spoken. “The security footage from across the street shows a man in a black suit leaving through the back door at the time of death. Unless you’ve managed to clone my client, he couldn’t have been in two places at once.”

Jackson watched the exchange with growing satisfaction. This was the Hayes family power he remembered – not