Page 105 of Before Dawn

With the last few tweaks in place, the atmosphere shifted, settling into something that finally felt right.

“Everything’s been adjusted, sir,” Morison said confidently. “Media’s all set in the back, and the investors are making their way in.”

Sapphire joined us, clipboard in hand. “We’ve also got a lineup of local influencers covering the event, and the turnout’s already looking solid. It’s going to be a great day.”

As they spoke, my phone buzzed in my hand with a text from Abigail lighting up the screen.

Red: Good luck today. I know it’s going to be amazing *yellow heart*.

Me:Thanks, Red. You get off work late tonight, right?

Red:Yeah, I’m there from open to close.

Me:Have you eaten?

Red:Not yet. I really want Chipotle.

Me:Then I’ll have someone deliver it to you.

Red:I was gonna get it later…

Me:Don’t worry about that, mi amor. I’ll handle it.

Red:Thank you *yellow heart*

Red:How’s Chicago?

Me:Productive. I just really miss you.

Red:I miss you, too. Hopefully, you’ll be back soon.

“Sir,” Morison called, pulling my attention away from my phone. “The cars are arriving.”

I nodded. “Perfect. Also, have someone deliver Chipotle and a bouquet of primroses to Book Culture. No later than half an hour from now.”

He grabbed his phone. “The same order as last time? ToAbigail?”

“Yes.”

Morison gave a quick nod. “And it’s all taken care of, sir. The delivery is on its way.”

Turning back to my phone, I sent one last text.

Me:Sorry about that, Red. I have to go but I’ll call you later.

I slipped my phone into my pocket, a flicker of a smile tugging at my lips. Outside, sleek black cars pulled up in perfect sync, their drivers stepping out in polished uniforms to open doors for their passengers. Effortless luxury. Seamless efficiency.Thiswas the image we wanted to project.

“We’re not just launching,” I said, adjusting my cufflinks. “We’re making a statement. Elite Rides is here to stay.”

Morison checked his watch. “Thirty minutes until the speeches. Media talking points covered, sir?”

“Of course.” I didn’t need a reminder; I’d been preparing for this moment long before today.

The clock ticked down, and I took a breath, letting the anticipation settle. This was more than expansion—it was proof of what we’d built. Proof that we weren’t just another name in the industry; we were the future of mobility.

When the time came, I stepped to the podium, and the crowd hushed. “Welcome, everyone, to the launch of Elite Rides in Chicago. This city has always been known for innovation, and today, we bring a new era of luxury transportation to your streets.”

Applause erupted. I continued, laying out our mission, the tech behind our service, and the high standards we upheld. I highlighted our partnerships, our drivers’ elite training, and the seamless experience that set us apart.

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