Chapter 15 - THE FLIGHT TO CHICAGO
A private Gulfstream jet soared smoothly above the clouds, cutting through the crisp blue skies on route to Chicago O'Hare.
Charlotte sat alone in the leather-lined cabin, reviewing confidential blueprints for a new green-energy manufacturing plant.
Her olive-green sweater and worn canvas bag rested neatly in the overhead compartment, a quiet reminder of her humility.
She believed that true power didn't need to be draped in diamonds or announced by shouting matches in hotel lobbies.
As the aircraft descended toward the Windy Lake, the glittering skyscrapers of downtown Chicago rose up to meet the horizon.
A convoy of black armored SUVs waited on the private tarmac, their engines idling quietly against the Midwest chill.
Local executives and regional directors stood in a neat line by the airstrip, bracing themselves for her inspection.
Charlotte stepped down the aircraft stairs with effortless grace, her dark trench coat fluttering in the airport wind.
"Welcome to Chicago, Ms. Valle," the regional director greeted her nervously, offering a crisp, formal handshake.
May you like
"Cut the pleasantries, Director. Take me straight to the assembly plant that failed its safety audit last week," she commanded.
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