As everyone settled into their seats, the room grew quieter, the sound of papers rustling fading into a composed silence. The large company logo—Bright Steps International—glimmered proudly on the screen behind the podium. The atmosphere was formal yet charged with anticipation.
Standing near the head of the table was Mr. Jonathan Reed, the Deputy Chairman of Bright Steps International. He was a man in his early fifties, with neatly combed silver hair and the kind of calm voice that could command a room without needing to raise it. Though he was originally from the same country as Sebastian and Lucas, he had been living in V Nation for years, managing the company's operations there.
He cleared his throat softly before speaking, his accent carrying the familiar tone of home.
