#Chapter 42: Shifting Ground

They announced my promotion like a death sentence. It was supposed to be a step up, but everyone knew it was about removing me from public view, tucking me into a back room so I couldn't embarrass them anymore. It was behind-the-scenes work. They wanted me invisible. "Congratulations," someone mumbled, too quiet for the room to hear properly. Another voice cleared its throat. "Promotion well earned." It felt fake. Staged. My mouth twisted and I caught Emma exchanging a glance with Nathan. "Seriously?" I whispered, glancing at Emma. She raised an eyebrow. "What?" I shook my head. "Nothing. Just... This is stupid." Emma tried to smile. "Hey, you wanted this. Command hub's yours now." "Oh yeah?" I snapped. "Feels like you just want me out of the public eye." My heart pounded like it wanted out of my chest. Every eye flicked to me and then snapped away. Richard didn't say anything, but his eyes burned into me. Cold. Controlled. But I could see the heat there, banked like coals re