Adrian’s POV

Eileen walked steadily along the quiet streets, the city lights stretching across Hudson Yards in the distance.

Her footsteps were unhurried.Even.

The night air was cool against her skin.

Then—Footsteps.

Faster.Closer.

Eileen’s pace didn’t change.

But her senses sharpened slightly.

Someone was following her.

—

Earlier that evening…

I had left the Vances Building shortly after the meeting ended.

The atmosphere in the conference room had been suffocating.

Not because of the reports.

But because of my own state of mind.

I didn’t linger.Didn’t explain.

I simply left.

—

Inside my car, I sat in silence for a moment.

Then, without overthinking it—I started the engine.

And drove....