Mark stood in the grand lobby of the hotel, holding his mobile phone tightly in his hand. Cold sweat broke out on his forehead as he stared down at the dark screen. The heavy marble pillars around them seemed to trap the tense, quiet air, making every breath feel heavy and difficult.

Julian did not move a single inch. He stood tall in his dark suit, his broad shoulders squared and his sharp eyes fixed completely on Mark’s pale face. Beside him, Evelyn held her head high, her blue silk pantsuit looking neat and stunning under the bright chandeliers. Her small hand remained resting on Julian’s arm, giving him a...