Chapter 19: The Sound of Freedom

Another week passed, and the mounting pressure of neglected Silvermane Industries business forced Wesley to return to the mainland. He had barely touched down when Elder Silvermane intercepted him, his expression grim. "The Starling family's influence is not insignificant. Even after the... dissolution of your bond with Starling, we must maintain appearances." During their four-year union, the Starling pack, to demonstrate their support for their daughter, had consistently favored Silvermane Industries with lucrative joint ventures. Now, those collaborations were evaporating, one by one, representing a staggering financial blow. Wesley gave a noncommittal grunt, his fingers unconsciously stroking the screen of his comm-unit. It displayed a live feed from the island—a surveillance camera showing Starling lying on a beach lounger, soaking in the sun. Yet, her face held no peace, only a palpable restlessness. He had muted the audio to speak with his