Chapter 9 - The New Command
Three days later, the corporate restructuring of Hayes & Sons hit the financial news networks like a tidal wave.
*BREAKING NEWS: Leonard Hayes steps down as CEO of Hayes & Sons following federal compliance audit. Replaced by an independent board-appointed executive committee. Stock continues volatile slide.*
Inside her secure office at the Pentagon, Amelia Hayes watched the broadcast on a muted wall monitor while reviewing deployment schedules for the Seventh Fleet.
The door to her office clicked open. Her military aide, Lieutenant Commander Vance, stepped in, holding a secure courier pouch.
"Admiral, dispatch from the White House," Vance reported, placing the pouch on her desk. "The President’s Chief of Staff wants confirmation on your availability for the Pacific Security Summit next month."
Amelia picked up her pen, signing off on a requisition form without looking up. "Tell him I’ll be there. And Vance?"
"Ma'am?"
"Clear my weekend schedule."
Vance raised an eyebrow, a rare hint of curiosity breaking through his professional demeanor. "Anything special, Admiral? Trip to San Diego?"
May you like
Amelia looked up from her desk, a faint, genuine smile touching the corners of her lips—the first real smile she had worn in days.
"No, Vance," she said quietly. "Just visiting my mother. Time to remind her that not all sailors get lost at sea."
