Chapter 26: The Chessboard of Shadows

The maintenance shed became quiet as Avery looked at her father, her head whirling from the information. Marcus Chen's eyes, so like her own, carried a mix of pride and calculating that sent thrills down her spine.

"Dad," Avery gasped, her voice barely heard above the storm outside. "You're alive."

Marcus nodded, a faint grin flashing at the corners of his lips. "Indeed. And you, my darling, have grown into quite the fearsome young lady."

Lena moved forward, her former warmth replaced by chilly efficiency. "I hate to interrupt this touching family reunion, but we have business to discuss."

Avery's training kicked in, putting her disbelief aside. She straightened her spine, meeting her father's stare with iron determination. "What's going on here? Why the charade?"

Marcus indicated to the decrepit chairs put about the shed. "Sit, Avery. It's time you found the actual nature of the game we're playing."