Chapter 16

Chapter 16 SummaryTony wakes early to the noise of guests leaving the hotel for the final time, still groggy after a late night of reviewing notes and emails from the LAB Conference. Knowing more rest is unlikely, he starts his morning with coffee and a shower while the television delivers grim headlines of escalating gun violence, international unrest, and its economic toll. The brief mention of Walter Jenkins’ abduction, now treated as a fading news item, catches his attention, a reminder of the case’s slipping prominence. After finishing his routine, Tony plans to check in with Roger Cortez of GenaSeed before heading downstairs for breakfast.Meanwhile, Jennifer Bennett begins her day with determination, intent on gathering material for her story. She calls the local FBI office, quickly learning that a press conference is scheduled for two o’clock that afternoon. Encouraged by the ease of arranging her attendance, she shifts focus to GenaSeed, successfully reaching Vice President of Communications Sandra Brown. To Jennifer’s surprise, Brown agrees to meet her later that afternoon despite the company’s chaotic state. The call leaves Jennifer optimistic, sensing that both the press conference and the private meeting could provide the fresh insights she needs to push her story forward.