CHAPTER 2 The Man Behind the Ring
The diner returned to normal, but Ethan couldn't stop thinking about the mysterious biker.
An hour later, three black SUVs rolled quietly into the parking lot.
Customers pressed against the windows.
Men and women in dark business suits stepped out before opening the rear door for the same biker Ethan had helped earlier.
Manager Leonard's face turned pale.
The biker walked calmly back inside.
This time everyone stood.
"My name is Marcus Reed," he said.
"I own every diner in this company."
Silence swept through the restaurant.
Leonard immediately began apologizing.
"I didn't recognize you, sir."
Marcus looked at him without emotion.
"Exactly."
He turned toward Ethan.
"I visit different locations every year without warning."
"I don't inspect the food."
"I inspect the people."
Ethan stood speechless.
Marcus slowly removed the silver ring and placed it on the counter once again.
"My father gave me this before leaving for Vietnam."
"It's worth almost nothing."
"But it's the only thing I have left of him."
He smiled faintly.
"You were willing to protect it even though you believed I was just another stranger."
Leonard lowered his head.
Marcus's expression hardened.
"You cared more about company policy than basic humanity."
Without another word, Marcus handed Ethan a business card.
"Tomorrow morning."
May you like
"My office."
"We have something important to discuss."
