The Gulfstream G700 landed with a velvet whisper on the private Malé airstrip, its sleek white frame gleaming under the sun as it rolled to a gentle stop. The tarmac was quiet, cleared in advance, and the moment the jet door opened, the scent of warm salt air spilled into the cabin, laced with frangipani and sea breeze.

Kingsley stepped out first, sunglasses in place, his linen shirt fluttering lightly in the breeze. He turned and offered his hand to Katherine, who descended the jet stairs ...