Noel arrived exactly forty-three minutes later.
She walked through the door carrying a leather portfolio and wearing an expression that suggested whatever she'd learned at Stark Industries was bad enough to warrant the dramatic entrance. Her violet hair was pulled back in that severe style she used for corporate warfare. The glasses were on. The armor was up.
"Everyone needs to hear this."
No greeting. No preamble. Just business.
We gathered in the living room. Mera on my left, Aurora on my right, Cheon perched on the arm of the couch with her tablet ready. Noel remained standing. Pacing slightly.
"Your father has accelerated his timeline."
The words landed like a punch to the sternum.
"How accelerated?"
