“Inform the security detail that we are ready to depart,” I said.

“Yes, General,” Harris said, pulling his secure device from his belt.

Daniel took another step toward me, his face red with anger.

“You’re bluffing,” he said, his voice rising.

“You wouldn’t dare let this go public.”

“You care too much about what your superiors think.”

“I care about the truth,” I said.

“And the truth is that you and your daughter have crossed a line you cannot retract.”

The floorboards beneath our feet vibrated slightly.

It was a low, heavy rumble that didn’t sound like a normal car.

Through the frosted glass of the door, I saw the sweep of high-beam headlights cutting through the twilight.

A large, dark vehicle had pulled into our driveway, its engine idling with a deep, mechanical growl.

Then, another pair of headlights appeared behind it, casting long, stark shadows across our front lawn.

Daniel turned his head, his brow furrowing as he tried to see through the glass.

“Who is that?” he asked.

“Is that your ride?”

“No,” I said.