Chapter 10 - The Phoenix Empire Reborn
Six months passed, and the hot Arizona summer gave way to the cool, crisp evenings of late October.
Preston Supply Operations had expanded into three new states, opening distribution hubs in Utah, Colorado, and Texas.
Nora had completely renovated the Paradise Valley estate, tearing down the master bedroom suite and converting it into a massive sunlit art studio.
The memory of the rattlesnake and the betrayal had faded from a constant, bleeding wound into a clean, smooth scar.
On a Friday evening, Nora hosted a charity gala in her newly renovated gardens to raise funds for desert wildlife conservation.
Over two hundred of Phoenix’s top business leaders, politicians, and philanthropists filled the illuminated courtyard.
Nora moved through the crowd wearing a striking red gown, her confidence radiating through every smile and handshake.
Daniel Moore walked up beside her, handing her a glass of chilled white wine with a warm smile.
“You look magnificent tonight, Nora,” Daniel said, his eyes filled with genuine admiration.
“I feel magnificent, Daniel,” Nora replied, taking a sip of wine. “For the first time in twelve years, I own every second of my life.”
Suddenly, Marcus Reed stepped out from the main house, holding a secure tablet computer with a grave expression.
He walked quickly over to Nora and Daniel, keeping his voice low so the gala guests couldn't hear.
“Nora, we have a situation at the Florence State Prison,” Marcus whispered, leaning in close.
Nora’s smile vanished instantly, her eyes narrowing with sharp focus. “What happened?”
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“Kristina Finch collapsed in her cell an hour ago,” Marcus reported.
“And before she was rushed to the hospital, she left a sealed letter addressed specifically to you.”
