Chapter 9 - The Grand Opening
Two months later, the copper-trimmed sign above Sadi’s Brew & Bistro gleamed brightly under the late morning sun. The cafe was located on a bustling corner just three blocks away from the central financial district, boasting exposed brick walls, trailing ivy, and the rich, comforting aroma of freshly roasted espresso beans.
Sadi wiped down the polished counter with a bright smile, watching a steady stream of local professionals file in for their morning lattes. For the first time in her life, she wasn't constantly looking over her shoulder. Her brother Tommy was doing well in Oregon, working a legitimate job and calling her every Sunday without fail. And Vincent—Vincent visited every single morning at exactly 8:15 AM, drinking his black coffee and quietly anchoring her world.
The bell above the front door chimed cheerfully, and a tall man in a tailored gray suit stepped inside. He didn't look like a regular commuter. He moved with a practiced, predatory grace, his sharp eyes scanning the room before locking directly onto Sadi behind the counter.
"Good morning," Sadi said politely, stepping up to the register. "Welcome to Sadi's. What can I get started for you?"
The man smiled, but his eyes remained ice-cold. He slid a thick manila envelope across the counter. "Inspection notice, Miss Vance. It appears your building permits for the kitchen extension were improperly filed. According to city zoning laws, we have to shut down operations immediately for an indefinite structural audit."
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Sadi’s smile faltered. She picked up the envelope, her fingers trembling as she read the official-looking letterhead. "That's impossible. Every single permit was cleared and paid for through official channels when the deed was transferred."
"Not according to our records," the man replied smoothly, turning toward the door. "You'll be hearing from the municipal courts very soon. Have a wonderful day."
