The hum of the wheels riding the road drowned out almost all of Rome’s thoughts as he stared out the passenger window of Bart’s car, watching the suburbs turn into cityscape. The sun was setting, casting the world in a soft orange glow, reflecting off of the metal surfaces of cars and buildings, creating a warm ambience that might’ve been a comfort to Rome if he was headed anywhere else.

Neither man spoke much at all as they made their way toward the restaurant where Rome’s parents would meet them. He’d already spoken at length to Bart about his agenda and the plan, should something go wrong. His goal was...