—Mabel—
The Washington headquarters of Allwell Company stood tall in the Innovation District. Just like each of our branch offices, it was surrounded by a tech lab, drone startups, and an aerodynamic testing field.
My convoy pulled up before the skyscraper—the executive hub. I alighted from my car and went in for a handshake with the manager. “Mr. James Martins.”
“Mabel Parker,” I introduced.
“Welcome, Ms. Parker. We have been expecting you,” he said and gestured toward the lobby. “This way please.”
He led me down the marble-floored corridor, where glass walls gave glimpses into bustling labs and offices. The air smelled faintly of citrus and new leather.
“Mrs. Veronica Allwell spoke highly of you. She said if anyone could land the U.S. government deal, it’s the woman she trusted eno
