“Do you understand what you’ve done?” “I protected airline security from obvious fraud.”
“You attacked the wrong person, Victoria. The absolutely wrong person.” Amara’s phone rings.
She glances at the screen displaying “Dad” and declines the call, earning shocked looks from Mitchell, who recognizes the implications immediately.
“Ms. Sterling, you have 30 seconds to apologize to these passengers for the discrimination they witnessed.” Amara’s calm delivery makes the ultimatum more terrifying than shouting would.
“I don’t apologize for doing my job properly.” “Your job ended 10 minutes ago.”
Mitchell produces his tablet with trembling hands. “Victoria Sterling, you’re suspended pending federal investigation. Security will escort you off company property immediately.”
Victoria stares in disbelief as 23 years of authority crumble around her. “You can’t suspend me over this little—”
“Watch your next words very carefully.” Mitchell’s warning carries genuine fear.
The crowd buzzes with speculation and phone cameras. Who is this teenager who can end careers with a single phone call?
Victoria’s about to discover that “aviation worker” was the understatement of the century.
