~ Jeremy’s POV~

The glass front of ‘Smiles Company’ rose ahead of me, its silver panels reflecting the late morning sun. I slowed as I approached the familiar, discreet back entrance, the one only the Lords used, and drew in a tight, grounding breath. My chest felt stiff. My pulse hummed in a slow, heavy rhythm.

Today was the day.

I would quit.

I would put the damned ring down, walk away from this fraternity, and reclaim my life.

My father’s words from three days ago replayed in my mind “If the meeting doesn’t go the way you want, I have a surprise for you.” I had held onto that...