“You live there at their pleasure,” I said, my voice carrying in the silent ballroom. “Michael is the master of that house now. If he wants to give you a guest room, that’s his choice.

But you will never hold a roof over his head again. You will never threaten him with an inheritance again. Because you have nothing left to give.”

I looked at Sophia and gave a respectful nod. “Thank you for the salute, Captain. But you shouldn’t have blown my cover.”

She smiled — fierce and beautiful. “Honor must be paid, General. And bullies must be stopped.”

“Indeed.” I checked my watch. “My leave ends at 0800. I have a flight to catch.”

Chapter 6 — Into the Storm

I turned for the grand exit, and the crowd parted in silence — a sea of wide eyes and stunned whispers. But this time, my departure would not be quiet.