The armed operatives spread through the laboratory with practiced precision.
Their rifles never wavered.
Anthony instinctively stepped in front of Evelyn.
The stranger lowered his weapon just enough to smile.
"It has been a long time, Anthony."
Anthony searched the man's face.
Then recognition struck.
"Daniel Mercer."
The smile widened.
"I was wondering how long it would take."
Benjamin's eyes narrowed.
"The Mercers disappeared years ago."
Daniel chuckled.
"We didn't disappear."
"We were recruited."
Dr. Eleanor Hayes stared at him with quiet disappointment.
"I should have known they'd send you."
Daniel inclined his head.
"They wanted someone familiar."
He glanced at Anthony.
"Someone who understands how your family thinks."
Evelyn tightened her grip on the black case c
