I raised an eyebrow, genuinely curious despite myself. "Markets Algerone hasn't considered? That's a bold claim."
"The Asian defense sector is undergoing a complete transformation," Shaw explained. "New players, new technologies, new conflicts brewing. Lucky Losers focuses too much on traditional Western military contracts to see the opportunities."
"Our best operatives are currently deployed in Southeast Asia," I said, threading truth into the conversation. "Xander and Ash have been running reconnaissance on exactly those emerging markets for six weeks now. We're not as blind as you assume."
Shaw's smile flickered. Interesting. He hadn't expected that.
"Reconnaissance isn't the same as commitment," he recovered smoothly. "Algerone sends two men to observe while I'm building infrastructure. There's a difference between watching and acting."
"Perhaps." I let the word hang between us, sensing Algerone's attention sharpen across the room. "But you understand, after so many years, I'd need certain... assurances."
"Name them."
"Proof that GidTech can match Lucky Losers' capabilities. I won't jump ship for empty promises."
Shaw's eyes glittered. "What kind of proof would convince you?"
This moment marked the first real betrayal. I sensed Algerone's attention intensify, felt him lean forward slightly.
"I heard about the Banshee prototype going missing," I said carefully, watching Shaw's reaction. "Quite the security breach. That level of precision suggests... professional expertise."
Shaw's expression remained neutral, but satisfaction flickered in his eyes. "Yes, I heard about that unfortunate incident. A sonic weapon prototype, wasn't it? Disappeared right from Lucky Losers' own facility." He tsked sympathetically. "Security must be quite lax to allow something so valuable to simply vanish."
"The timing intrigued me," I pressed. "Right after we secured the DoD contract."
"Coincidences happen," Shaw said smoothly. "Though it does raise questions about Lucky Losers' ability to protect sensitive technology. The Pentagon must be... concerned."
"Whoever orchestrated it had inside knowledge. Guard rotations, security protocols, even Dr. Hardin's access codes."
"Dr. Hardin?" Shaw's eyebrows rose in perfectly feigned surprise. "Your lead scientist? How troubling. Has she been located?"
"Not yet." I allowed frustration to color my voice. "Algerone believes she was turned. Personally, I think she saw a better offer elsewhere."
"The private sector can be very persuasive," Shaw agreed. "Especially for undervalued talent."
"Well, Lucky Losers Inc. will need to review its entire security infrastructure," I said, injecting weariness. "The damage to our reputation alone—"
"I've always thought Lucky Losers was a ridiculous name," Shaw interrupted. "Terrible branding for a mercenary company. Makes you sound like gamblers who can't win."
I sensed Algerone stiffen against the wall. This ventured into dangerous territory, touching the superstitions that ran bone-deep.
"You'd need to understand the man to understand the name," I replied carefully. "Sometimes losing the right hand saves your life."
Shaw's eyebrows rose. "Cryptic. Care to elaborate?"
"He's... particular about cards." I chose my words precisely, revealing just enough. "His initials spell A.C.E. Named the company headquarters Spade Tower. Every major decision follows consulting his deck."
"Superstitious?" Shaw sounded amused. "That seems unlike the ruthless strategist I've studied."
"Not superstition," I corrected, that odd defensiveness rising despite my role. "Respect. For the game that shaped him. The loss that made him who he is."
Shaw leaned back, his smile turning cruel. "Ah yes. The famous story. The bullet that should have killed him hit his precious playing card instead." He laughed, a cold sound. "The Ace of Spades that supposedly saved Algerone Caisse-Etremont's life. I've heard the legend. He still carries it, doesn't he? That damaged card?"
My jaw tightened before I could stop it. Shaw had done his research. Too much research.
"He keeps it close," I admitted, the words bitter on my tongue.
"A man who builds his entire identity around a near-death experience and a lucky piece of cardstock." Shaw shook his head, still smiling. "It's almost sad, really. All that brilliance, all that ruthlessness, and underneath it all he's just a gambler clutching his rabbit's foot. Tell me, Maxime, does he kiss the card before important meetings? Does he sleep with it under his pillow?"
