Author's Note: Do Not Unlock Yet.
----------------
Wright stepped forward slightly, lowering his voice.
"I'm glad you sent that text. The moment I saw you agree to the operation, things started moving on our side."
August folded his arms.
"I told you before—don't forget our deal."
Wright didn't hesitate. "I haven't."
August straightened from the table, his presence shifting from relaxed to authoritative.
"Repeat it."
Wright inhaled. "You lead this strike team. Full command authority under Agency oversight."
"And?"
"And once the operation is complete…" Wright paused, glancing at the others as if weighing how much to say in their presence.
"…we release the boy to you. Under your supervision."
August nodded once.
"Good."
It wasn't a negotiation.
It wasn't a request.
It was a condition.
And Wright knew that August did not move without purpose.
---
The Mission Briefing
