Lily's point of view

The turmoil that was developing outside my office walls was a sharp contrast to the meeting room. As I sat at the long table with my laptop open and a cup of coffee cooling by my side, the hum of an air purifier was the only sound in the room, and the sleek, glass-paneled walls reflected the brightness of overhead lights.

I didn't want to be in here. nor after Marcus's persistent interference in my life, nor after the rogue attack at the daycare. For better or worse, my profession required me to be focused on the game, and duty called.

The regional director, Mr. Harper,...