Xavier’s POV

Power was supposed to be clean when you earned it. Build the empire, make the right calls, crush the competitors.

But when it came to protecting Daphne, I realized power was never clean.

It was sharp,messy, and stained.

And I was ready to stain my hands again.

Immediately after leaving Daphne’s office, I tore through my office like a storm.

The skyline outside gleamed gold with sundown, but my desk was littered with reports, phone records, and shredded patience.

“Double-check ...