He twisted the top half. The gold casing clicked and slid apart, revealing a micro-USB interface hidden inside. Not just a key — a hardware bypass.

I drew my suppressed USP and stepped out of the shadows.

“Step away from the console, Commander,” I said, my voice cold and steady.

Chapter 5 — Truth Is a Rank

Admiral Blake jumped. Adrian merely turned his head, a slow, arrogant smile spreading.

“Serena,” he purred. “I have to admit, I didn’t expect you to make it this far. You’re much more resilient than your mother.”

“I said step away.”