A week later, the same dark sedan returned. Howard stepped out, sunglasses glinting, his easy smile still plastered in place. “Just thought I’d check in,” he said, leaning against the car door. “There’s still time to make this easy on yourself, Mr. Briggs.” Walter shook his head. “You already have my answer.” Howard sighed, straightening his tie. “I figured you’d say that.”
His voice lowered. “But you should know, the work’s already approved. Once it starts, there’s no going back. Whatever happens from here… well, I tried to warn you.” He left without waiting for a reply. The car’s taillights disappeared into the dust, leaving Walter standing by the fence, his reflection faint in the truck’s window.