Across the city, Victor Chen arrived at the private hospital where Nigel Portman was receiving treatment. He'd driven directly from the Romano estate, his mind still processing the late-night meeting and its implications.Victor navigated the hospital corridors with practiced ease—he'd been visiting Nigel regularly since the injury, coordinating family business while Nigel recovered from the extensive surgeries on his shattered legs.He entered Nigel's private room to find the young heir sitting up in bed, his legs elevated and heavily bandaged, his face still showing the strain of constant pain despite the medications."Victor," Nigel said immediately, his voice sharp despite the exhaustion. "You're back. How did it go? Did Romano agree?""Not yet," Victor replied, closing the door behind him to ensure privacy. "But he's considering it. Very seriously, I think.""Considering?" Nigel's expression darkened. "What does that mean? Did you present everything like we discussed? Did you exp

"Also impossible to locate," Aria replied. "If Jack is holding them hostage, he's keeping them somewhere off our grid. Somewhere we don't have surveillance or intelligence access. Could be a private residence. Could be a warehouse. Could be anywhere in the city."Darius frowned, his mind working through possibilities. "We need better intelligence. Better networks. The resources we have access to here in Duskfort aren't sufficient for finding someone who's prepared to disappear.""What are you thinking?" Aria asked."I'm thinking it's time to activate some of my old military contacts," Darius replied. "People with access to satellite surveillance, financial tracking, communications intercepts—resources that go beyond standard civilian investigation capabilities."He pulled out his secure phone—the one he used for sensitive military communications. "I have friends in intelligence agencies. People who owe me favors from past operations. If Jack Reeves is in Duskfort, they can help me fin

Raymond's smile widened. "Interesting. Very interesting. You know, Miss Jackson, I think I understand now why my son has been so fascinated with you. You have something most people lack—genuine courage. Not the fake bravado of people pretending to be brave, but real, deep-seated strength of character."He turned toward his car. "I look forward to learning more about you. And about the people who inspire such loyalty in someone with your evident strength. People like your bodyguard. People like Darius Kane."With that, Raymond entered his sedan, and his driver pulled away smoothly, the convoy of security vehicles following.Alessia released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding, her legs suddenly feeling weak."Alessia—" Josh started."I need to go," Alessia interrupted, moving toward her own car. "I need to get home. Talk to Darius. Prepare for tonight.""Wait," Josh called after her. "About tonight. About the dinner. Maybe you should—"But Alessia was already in her car, pu