The Backlash of Arrogance
Rex Valquin's brows knit tightly together, the authority of a seasoned patriarch sharpening his gaze. He looked at the two bodyguards who were still pointing toward Evan.
"Get this man out of here."
The command cut through the hall like a blade.
The bodyguards stepped forward immediately.
But before they could lay a hand on him—
"Dad!"
Gwen Valquin rose abruptly, the hem of her dress swaying with urgency.
"Mr. Evan is a highly skilled expert I invited. He is very capable."
Fingers trembled even though she kept speaking without pause.
A shape emerged from her coat when she slid fingers inside. A scrap of old paper came out, creased many times, color faded like sun-bleached leaves.
"This is the talisman he gave me. Ever since I started wearing it, I've been sleeping soundly and haven't had any nightmares."
Murmurs moved like water across the room.
