Sergeant Davis turned toward them calmly.
“We are here on behalf of Vanguard Aerospace and the Department of Defense.”
Ryan’s jaw dropped. “Vanguard?”
“Correct.”
My mother’s voice shook. “Emily… how…?”
“Morning, Mom,” I said calmly. “Sorry about the noise.”
My father frowned. “You got a job there?”
“Partnership,” I corrected. “I’m their new Chief Technology Officer.”
Silence hit like a shockwave.
Davis loaded my suitcase.
“Ready?”
“Emily, wait,” my mother said weakly. “You slept in the garage last night.”
“Yes,” I said. “It helped me think.”
I turned away, got into the SUV, and left.
Inside, Davis handed me a folder.
A luxury penthouse—mine.
And a note.
Dinner tonight. Guest list included.
I flipped the page.
My family’s names were there.
