Stephan and his guards stood outside his home, waiting for Nicolai's arrival. As Nicolai's car came into view, Stephan took a deep, calming breath and steeled himself for the encounter.

Kent chuckled. "Looks like he's heavily guarded. Should I call this fear?"

Nicolai's expression remained grim. "He'd better be afraid. If I find out he's holding Jasmine captive, nothing will stop me from killing him – not even his guards."

As Nicolai stepped out of the car, Stephan approached him, a fake ...