Roman met Julian at a quiet rooftop café, the city lights flickering in the distance. The place was empty enough for them to talk without interruption.

“So,” Julian said, leaning back, “you finally decided to take your mother’s deal seriously?”

Roman shook his head, running a hand through his hair. “It’s more complicated than that. She gave me access to everything, every lead, every name. But the more I dig, the more I realize just how smooth Venessa was. She didn’t just ask questions… she knew exactly where to look.”

Julian nodded slowly. “A good plan, a bad plan. Smart, but risky. Serena’s innocent, we both know that. But getting...