As the door closed behind her, the quiet clicked into place like a lock.
The warmth in Shuyin's expression faded, not abruptly, but with the controlled precision of someone who knew exactly when sentiment became a liability. She paused in the corridor, breathing once, slow and measured, as if sealing something away.
Motherhood sentiments stayed behind.
What stepped forward was Lin Shuyin.
The elevator ride to the top floor was smooth and silent. Numbers climbed steadily, each floor carrying her further from the room where children waited with snacks and tablets, and closer to the men who believed power was something they still possessed.
Her access card chimed softly as it registered at the executive level.
Authorization granted.
A small smile curved her lips, not warm, not pleased. Anticipatory.
Tank, Blade, and Razor fell into formation without a word. They didn't ask where they were going. They already knew. This was not protection.
This was presentation.
