Julian Ford shielded Josie Quinn behind him and turned to face the few visiting superpower users. His voice wasn't loud, but it carried an undeniable authority and a cold warning: "If you want my experiments to continue smoothly, I suggest you treat my friend with a little more respect! Otherwise..."
He paused. The usual gentleness in his eyes vanished, replaced by a sharp edge. "I will terminate all cooperation on these experiments immediately! You should be well aware that without me, all that data you've collected is nothing but a pile of scrap paper!"
The superpower users clearly hadn't expected Julian Ford to take such a hard line for a woman.
They were used to being arrogant and domineering outside. Anyone else who dared to speak to them like that would have been taught a lesson long ago.
But now, a flicker of calculation crossed the eyes of the leader, a capable-looking woman with short hair. A fake smile spread across her face as she raised a hand to stop her companions.
