Chapter 94

Ryan Bellows will be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Cynthia Drope was my colleague, peer, and close friend. She only sought to make the CoCP a better place for all that live within its borders. I only wish she could see her killer be brought to justice

-Co-Governor Lewis, June 1st, 2213 CE

LISHA WARD DISAPPEARED when she saw the face of her father. The two armed attackers had held her attention until now, but she saw Cade's body just as Rich did, and it was like the first time all over again. Sorrow too powerful to describe clawed at her throat, and her skin began to sizzle even before her conscious command. Rich scrambled to his feet, reaching for Cade's pale, perfect cheek.

"No!" Lisha cried. Rage consumed her. She sprinted across the control room, skidding to a halt between Rich and Cade's body. "You'll never touch him again!"

"Lisha," Rich said, his hardened exterior crumbling before her eyes. "Please. He's my son."