Chapter 3
The sleek black sedan pulled into the private corporate parking lot of Vance Enterprises just as the sun cleared the glass skyline. Caleb stepped out of the vehicle, his combat boots clicking sharply against the polished concrete pavement.
Inside the executive boardroom on the top floor, Evelyn and Marcus were laughing over freshly brewed espresso and blueberry scones. They wore expensive designer suits that contrasted sharply with Caleb's combat-worn tactical attire.
"I still can't believe Sarah actually signed the deed over without calling the local police," Marcus chuckled, adjusting his gold wristwatch with arrogant satisfaction. "Mother, your psychological pressure tactics are truly world-class."
Evelyn sipped her espresso with regal indifference, her silver hair styled into an immaculate bun. "Fear is a remarkably efficient tool, Marcus, especially when dealing with fragile women who have no powerful family backing them."
The heavy oak boardroom doors suddenly swung open with a resounding bang that rattled the crystal water pitchers. Caleb strode into the room, his dark navy tactical uniform radiating an aura of overwhelming lethal authority.
Evelyn froze mid-sip, her teacup clattering against the saucer as she stared at her son in absolute disbelief. "Caleb? When did you return from deployment? You weren't scheduled back for another month."
Marcus stood up quickly from his executive leather chair, attempting to recover his composure with a nervous, condescending smirk. "Well, look who decided to grace us with his presence. Did you miss your homecoming party, little brother?"
May you like
Caleb didn't say a single word as he walked slowly toward the head of the mahogany table. He placed a thick manila folder squarely in the center of the glass surface with a heavy, deliberate thud.
"Sit down, both of you," Caleb commanded, his voice carrying the terrifying weight of a commanding officer addressing insubordinate recruits. "We have a comprehensive operational review to conduct."
