As the tension in the terminal reached a crescendo, General Caldwell finally moved. His presence was a silent storm gathering force, and with a controlled, authoritative voice, he said, “I think it’s time you pick that up, Officer.”
Lawson turned slowly, the smirk faltering on his lips as he met Caldwell’s unwavering gaze. In that moment, he realized the magnitude of his mistake. The air seemed to thicken with the gravity of Caldwell’s rank and presence. The crowd, which had been an indifferent blur moments before, now watched with subdued anticipation.
“Who do you think you are?” Lawson blustered, his bravado shrinking with each word.
