Chapter 3 - Riley Walks In
Riley arrived at exactly 0800 in a plain gray sedan, with no escort, no uniform, and no interest in impressing anyone. She wore an olive tactical shirt, cargo pants, worn boots, and black gloves tucked into one back pocket. Her dark hair was tied back tight. She carried no folder, no laptop, no binder of credentials.
That bothered Kael immediately.
People who came to prove themselves usually brought evidence.
Riley brought only herself.
She crossed the yard at an even pace while the operators watched. The jokes died before she reached them. Something about the way she moved was not dramatic, but efficient. No wasted motion. No nervous smile. No glance around to see who approved.
She stopped in front of Kael.
“Senior Chief Kael.”
“That’s right. Riley Voss?”
“Yes.”
“I appreciate you making time.”
“I didn’t,” she said. “I was ordered.”
A few men snorted.
Kael stepped into her space, using his size the way he always had. He was taller, heavier, older, and used to people adjusting themselves around his anger.
Riley did not step back.
“What qualifies you to train my men?” he asked.
“Krav Maga, Systema, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Filipino Kali, Judo, combat biomechanics. Training rotations with operators from four allied countries. Classified consulting contract with the Department of Defense.”
“Certifications,” Kael said. “I’ve got a CPR card. Doesn’t make me a surgeon.”
“No,” Riley replied. “That’s why I don’t expect you to believe paper.”
That answer irritated him more than arrogance would have.
So he pointed at Delaney.
“Marco. Show the consultant what paper doesn’t teach.”
Delaney grinned and stepped forward.
Riley looked at him once.
May you like
Not afraid.
Already reading.
