Vivian’s eyes flicked back to the photo on her screen. The grainy image captured the moment perfectly—her soft smile to Dolly, the protective hand of Dylan resting on her shoulder, the obliviousness of the people around them. But now, that moment was tainted. Someone had been watching, waiting.Her throat tightened. “They want me rattled.”Dylan’s voice was low but firm. “Then we don’t give them the satisfaction.”She nodded, determination hardening like steel in her chest. “I’ll double security around Dolly. No more public appearances without full sweeps.”“Good.” Dylan’s tone grew sharper, eyes flicking back to the street outside the car window. “No more slip-ups. We can’t afford mistakes.”Vivian swallowed, running a hand through her hair. “You think they’re going to try something soon? Like, escalate?”Dylan shook his head slowly. “It’s not if. It’s when. They’re already testing the waters—sending signals. That photo wasn’t just for intimidation. It was a message.”A bitter laugh

Vivian’s eyes flicked back to the photo on her screen. The grainy image captured the moment perfectly—her soft smile to Dolly, the protective hand of Dylan resting on her shoulder, the obliviousness of the people around them. But now, that moment was tainted. Someone had been watching, waiting. Her throat tightened. “They want me rattled.” Dylan’s voice was low but firm. “Then we don’t give them the satisfaction.” She nodded, determination hardening like steel in her chest. “I’ll double security around Dolly. No more public appearances without full sweeps.” “Good.” Dylan’s tone grew sharper, eyes flicking back to the street outside the car window. “No more slip-ups. We can’t afford mistakes.” Vivian swallowed, running a hand through her hair. “You think they’re going to try something soon? Like, escalate?” Dylan shook his head slowly. “It’s not if. It’s when. They’re already testing the waters—sending signals. That photo wasn’t just for intimidation. It was a message.” A bitter

Three Days Later — Tokyo, JapanLocation: Private Tea House, Shibuya DistrictThe paper screen slid open silently as Maiko Katsura entered, her presence as sharp and precise as the blade hidden beneath her kimono sleeve. She wasn’t just an information broker—she was a legend in the intelligence world, someone even seasoned field operatives refused to cross.Vivian stood waiting, dressed simply in black, no weapons visible, but her eyes betrayed the fire that had only grown since the confrontation with Lucien.Maiko’s lips curled faintly. “You came without backup. Either brave… or reckless.”Vivian bowed slightly. “Both.”Maiko gestured to the cushion across from her. “Then speak. And don’t waste words.”Vivian slid a flash drive across the lacquered table. “Nadia Greer. Victor Hale. Marco Bellini. We tracked the link back to your territory. I need names, networks, satellite leases, ghost server jumps—everything.”Maiko didn’t even look at the drive. “And what do I get in return?”Vivi