Ares

The streets outside Sterling Tower were quiet, but the silence felt wrong. Too controlled. Too deliberate.

Leon’s voice came through the earpiece, clipped and urgent. “Sir, multiple Vanguard operatives are moving in. GPS shows them converging near your property.”

I didn’t hesitate. “All teams to position Alpha. I want no one near Alina or Hope. Not alive.”

Atlas appeared at my side, his expression taut. “They’re moving fast. Gideon’s playing for ...