“As you know, the custom suits are made specifically for one person,” she said. “When measurements are received, a mannequin is created to replicate the person’s physique, so we can ensure fit and wearability.” Daiyu began walking the circumference of the corridor, set in the octagonal shape of the building. Double redwood doors flanked the other side. “This is the executive floor,” she said. “My father’s office is located here, but also those of the design teams. This is where the scientists and engineers brainstorm to create improved suits with even better technology and enhances. It also houses all the computers and servers that keep our suits worn by clients functioning.”

While the ground floor had felt warm and welcoming, the feeling on this floor was exactly the opposite. The empty corridor was dimly lit, and the thick double doors appeared foreboding, guarding secrets within, and keeping strangers out. I noticed none of the doors had the blue touch pads that had allowed us access so far throughout the building. Instead, a curved glass dome was set overhead by the entrance of each door supported by a steel column. She followed my glance. “Brain wave scans are required to enter the highest-security areas within Jin Corp,” she said. “This floor is highly restricted.”

So Lingyi’s intel was right. I needed to convince Daiyu to use the brain wave scan and somehow capture a copy of it.

Daiyu was gazing down at the expansive factory. The space was clean and well lit, but entirely clinical, without the clutter in Arun’s lab, making it feel more intimate.

“Why a brain wave scan?” I asked.

“It’s the best security option on the market currently.” She turned to me, arching an eyebrow. It felt almost like a challenge.

“I’m not surprised,” I replied. “Nothing but the best for Jin Corp.” I walked over to the steel column, peering at the curved dome set overhead. “How does it work? I’ve never seen one before.”

Without prompting, she brushed past me to stand beneath the dome.

She faced me, and too late, I realized I should have slipped the device Lingyi had given me onto the column before she came over. Now there was no way for me to do it discreetly.

The machine turned on with a low hum, then a crosshatch of laser beams flashed across the top of Daiyu’s head, so her features were tinged a ghostly blue. “Our brain waves are unique, like our fingerprints,” she said. “A recording of my brain wave was captured to help with authentication—”