Chapter 25: Suspecting Charles

The next morning, Liam was still shaken from the previous day’s conversation with Aria. Her words lingered, especially the insinuation that her father, Charles, was hiding secrets of his own. Charles had been like a second father to Liam, his mentor and guide through the complexities of his life. But now, doubt gnawed at him. Could there be a side of Charles he didn’t know?

He arrived at the café where he’d agreed to meet Charles that morning, determined to get answers. Charles was already seated, his posture relaxed, sipping on a coffee. Despite his usual calm, there was a sharpness in his gaze, as if...