The early summer air carried a crisp coolness, a refreshing respite from the sweltering heat that would soon descend upon the city. Brielle drew in a deep breath, savoring the faint scent of blooming flowers that wafted through the open window of the sleek black sedan.

Her phone buzzed, and she glanced down to see a message from her assistant, Amber, flashing across the screen.

"Ms. Asher, just wanted to confirm your meeting with Mr. Thornfield this afternoon at 3 pm regarding the school event."

Brielle felt a faint tightening in her chest at the mention of Darius's name, but she quickly dismissed it, replacing her phone in her purse...