Chloe’s POV

The night felt endless, the heavy air of anticipation wrapping around me like a cloak. The man across the room stared at me with a knowing look, his arms crossed as he leaned casually against the doorframe. He looked unimpressed, as if he could see right through me.

“So, what’s your grand plan this time, Chloe?” His voice was calm, calculated, but laced with an undercurrent of frustration.

I smirked, adjusting my coat as I prepared to leave. “You’ll see when it’s time. Just stay on standby.”

“You’re about to make the same mistake again,” he said flatly, his eyes narrowing. “Charging in with no leash on your...