Elena, however, remained oblivious. "Who's he calling? His parole officer?"
The crowd laughed, but some faces showed the first hints of uncertainty. Something in Damon's posture had shifted—not defeat, but preparation. The storm was about to break.
Jake Morrison's heavy footsteps echoed across the marble as Grand Meridian's head of security approached. His radio crackled, drawing every eye in the lobby.
"We have a situation, Jake," Derek called out, his voice carrying newfound authority. "Suspected credit card fraud. The individual refuses to cooperate."
Jake's 6'4" frame cast a shadow over Damon. His hand rested casually on his utility belt. "Sir, I need you to come with me for questioning."
"What crime am I committing?" Damon's voice remained level.
"Theft by deception, fraud, disturbing the peace," Jake counted on his fingers. "Take your pick."
At Luxury Lifestyle, Bree's phone nearly slipped from her hands. Her viewer count exploded past 2,100. Comments streamed: Security is here. This escalated quick. Someone call a lawyer.
Elena seized the moment, her voice rising to operatic levels. "Jake, look at this pathetic excuse for a credit card!" She waved the black Amex like a battle flag. "He probably bought it online for $19.99."
The teenage TikToker hit go-live. Within seconds, 500 viewers joined her stream titled Hotel Staff Destroys Scammer Live.
Jennifer Cole, the assistant manager, materialized from the business center. Her heels clicked against the marble as she surveyed the scene with practiced efficiency. "What's the status?"
Jennifer's question was directed at Derek, but her eyes never left Damon.
"Classic fraud attempt," Derek explained, puffing up like a peacock. "An individual attempted to use a clearly counterfeit premium card and refused additional verification."
Jennifer nodded knowingly. "Elena, call Chicago PD. Request a fraud specialist."