"Do you have a moment to talk, Haruki?"

The voice came without warning as Haruki was closing his laptop in a quiet café in central Tokyo. He looked up and found William standing in front of him—dressed in a dark suit, sharp features, and eyes that carried a storm.

Haruki stood politely, though his expression tightened. "Of course. Please, have a seat."

William pulled out a chair without smiling. He didn’t touch the coffee or water. His gaze was steady, and his voice cut straight through the air.

“You know Evelyn still loves me, don’t you?”

Haruki took a slow breath. He didn’t look intimidated, but he also didn’t turn...