"Because the alternative was staying weak," Jack replied. "Staying vulnerable. Watching this family get threatened by people like Marcus Thorne and not having the power to stop it. I made the choice that gave us the best chance of survival. And I'd make it again. I refuse to be weak in a world where power determines where you sit on the food chain."
Annabelle's small voice cut through the tension. "Are you okay, Jack? Really okay?"
Jack's expression softened as he looked at his youngest sister. "I'm fine, Annabelle. I promise. Everything is going to work out in the end."
He let the reassurance hang for a moment, then his demeanor shifted completely. The vulnerable honesty disappeared, replaced by the commanding presence they'd seen when he returned from war.
"But that's not why I called this meeting," Jack said, his tone flipping to something closer to business. "I have plans for Sorne. Significant improvements that need to start immediately."
