The night Alyssa decided to step outside the boardroom, the city looked different—less like a place of opportunity and more like a battlefield waiting for orders.

She stood by the floor-to-ceiling window of a private office that didn’t belong to her name, nor to the company that had nearly devoured her whole. This was neutral ground. Untouched by Davin’s shadow. Untouched by the board’s cowardice.

For now.

“You’re sure this is wise?” Ethan asked behind her.

Alyssa didn’t turn. The city lights reflected in the glass like fractured stars.

“No,” she answered honestly. “But I’m sure it’s necessary.”

Ethan crossed the room, stopping just short of her. He had stopped...