The voice on the other end of the line was deep and firm. “Mr. Ford, your return is approved. You’ve been granted the highest level of authority. You can mobilize the forces of the nearest military installation, and you have absolute discretion.”My knuckles went white as I gripped the phone. I only made a single utterance of affirmation.The moment I hung up, my assistant, Charlie Baker, pushed the door open and came in with a report. “Mr. Ford, the private jet is on the runway awaiting you, and the flight path has been approved. You can take off at any time.”“Alright.”I took my seat in the private jet and called my butler, Mr. Jeffords. The call was promptly answered. Mr. Jeffords asked deferentially, “Have you finished your negotiations, sir?” There was a smile in his voice.“Yes.” I managed to suppress my rage and answered calmly. “How are the plans for Dad’s birthday banquet going? Is he happy with them?”“Yes, very much so!” The cheer in Mr. Jefford’s voice rang hollo
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