I sidestepped his punch with the ease of a seasoned professional, allowing his momentum to carry him off balance. Before he could recover, I had him pinned against the wall, my hand clamped around his throat. His feet dangled inches from the floor as his eyes widened with fear.
“Listen closely, maggot,” I growled, my voice steady and unwavering, the voice that had once commanded the respect and obedience of countless young Marines. “Boot camp starts now.”
Derek’s bravado crumbled instantly, his eyes darting around the room as if searching for an escape. But there was no escape from this confrontation. Not this time.
