Sebastian Sterling deliberately chose not to explain the whole specifics to Mariya Romano about her family's situation. The truth was more complex than he was willing to reveal - after rescuing Elena Castellano and Antonio Castellano the first time, he had planted sophisticated tracking devices on both of them that would always give him their real-time location no matter where they were moved. He also had a tactical team standing by, ready to take action at a moment's notice if the Head Hunter's people recaptured them.But Mariya didn't need to know those details. The less she knew about his true capabilities, the safer everyone would be."Sebastian, I can't believe you managed to get them away from those monsters," Mariya said, tears of relief streaming down her face. "How can I ever repay you for this?""You don't need to repay me anything," Sebastian replied, maintaining his criminal persona's gruff exterior. "Leo Romano was my boss. Protecting his people is just business."Before

Vivian Fairchild could hear the Head Hunter and Sebastian Sterling talking about her with obvious contempt, their voices carrying across the restaurant despite their attempt at discretion. Her anger boiled over as she listened to their crude assessments."You know what?" Vivian said, turning to face Sebastian directly. "I've heard enough of your pathetic posturing for one lifetime, Sterling."Sebastian smirked at her outburst. "Have you now, princess? And what exactly are you going to do about it?""I'm going to make sure everyone in this city knows exactly what kind of scum you really are. A wanted criminal who preys on innocent women and hides behind bigger criminals when things get tough.""Innocent women?" Sebastian laughed harshly. "Is that what you call yourself?""I call myself someone who doesn't associate with murderers and extortionists."To Vivian's complete surprise, Mariya suddenly spoke up in Sebastian's defense. "Vivian, you don't understand the situation.""Excuse me?"

Vivian Fairchild was deeply confused about what to do regarding Mariya Romano's request for financial help. The conflicting information about Sebastian Sterling had left her questioning everything she thought she knew about the dangerous criminal.Unable to make such a momentous decision alone, she decided to seek counsel from the one person she trusted most - Karvel Cross.She found him at his modest apartment, which still showed signs of the fire damage from the Head Hunter's earlier attack. He was sitting by the window, reading a medical journal, when she knocked on his door."Karvel, I need to talk to you about something important," Vivian said as she entered."Of course. What's troubling you?""It's about Mariya Romano. She asked me to meet with her today, and what she told me... it's completely changed how I see this whole situation."Karvel set down his journal and gave her his full attention. "What did she say?""She claims that Sebastian Sterling isn't really working for the

Sebastian Sterling called the Head Hunter from a secure location, his voice carrying the satisfaction of a mission accomplished. "The job's done, boss. Vivian Fairchild is secured at the facility.""Excellent work, Sterling," the Head Hunter replied, his voice brimming with excitement. "I knew I could count on you to deliver results.""She wasn't too happy about the accommodations.""I'm sure she wasn't. Let her simmer there for a few days. I want her to really understand her new reality before I make my move.""What's the timeline?""Give it three, maybe four days. I want her properly... softened before our first conversation."Two days later, the Head Hunter arrived at the charter headquarters with anticipation, ready to enjoy his prize. But as soon as he stepped through the entrance, he noticed something was terribly wrong.Sal Benedetti was slumped against a wall, his face pale and sweating profusely. "Boss... boss, something's wrong with everyone.""What the hell are you talking

Head Hunter huffed and puffed, his face turning red with rage as he stared at Karvel. The bald assassin's sword tattoo seemed to pulse with his accelerated heartbeat."You're in no position to make demands, you pathetic worm!" Head Hunter snarled, spittle flying from his lips. "You'll do as I say or I'll snap your worthless neck right here!"Karvel remained perfectly calm, his expression unchanged as he looked around the infected headquarters. The smell of sickness hung heavy in the air, and several Ronin members were collapsed against walls, their faces pale and sweating."Actually," Karvel said in a measured tone, "you're the one in no position to make demands. Look around you, Head Hunter. Your precious organization is falling apart.""Don't you dare lecture me, you nobody!" Head Hunter roared, taking a threatening step forward.Karvel didn't flinch. Instead, he tilted his head slightly, his voice carrying an almost conversational quality. "The longer we wait here arguing, the wors