Monday morning arrived with a clear, harsh autumn sky over Wall Street. By eight o'clock, two dark, armored Escalades pulled into the private underground parking garage beneath Cross Industries Plaza in Lower Manhattan.
Maya adjusted the lapels of her sharp charcoal skirt suit as the vehicle came to a smooth stop. Beside her, Julian buttoned his suit jacket, looking every bit the unyielding, powerful corporate sovereign. Across the interior cabin, Toby sat beside Mrs. Gable, swinging his feet casually while holding a polished wooden train engine Reynolds had given him before they left the penthouse that morning.
Are you completely ready for this? Julian asked, his deep voice low, steady, and grounding as he looked over at Maya.
I was completely ready three days ago, Maya replied, holdin
