The employees slowly returned to their screens, pretending to reclaim a normality that no longer fit.
Hudson stepped forward with the chilling authority of Damien Blackwood, while Cruz—perfectly maintaining his role as Ashcroft—followed right beside him, his posture dripping with casual confidence.
James fell into place a half-step behind them, tablet in hand, while the real Damien and the real Ashcroft blended seamlessly into the rear as part of the security detail, perfectly maintaining the illusion.
The executive elevator waited at the end of the hall, doors open as if expecting them.
They walked toward it without urgency, without discussion, and without a single glance back.
There was nothing left to see except consequences already in motion.
Behind them, Brandy stood frozen for
