The lobby doors of Valerian Group’s headquarters were shattered. Thick smoke from a flashbang grenade still hung in the air, mingling with the scent of hot metal and ozone. Lianna stood behind Cassian, her eyes wide as she stared at her husband. He stood tall amidst the destruction, radiating an aura of power he had just openly displayed.
"The external defense systems have been compromised, Mr. Northvale," reported Agent D, his voice sounding slightly tense through Cassian’s earpiece. "They’re using level-three military protocols to breach the perimeter."
"I know," Cassian replied coldly, without looking back. He turned to Lianna, giving her a reassuring smile that felt utterly fake. "I’ll handle this, Lianna. I promise."
"Cassian, you... you fought like..." Lianna trailed off, unable t
