Moonlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Camille's penthouse, casting long silver shadows across the living room. The city sparkled below, millions of lights that would soon be powered by the Phoenix Grid. Camille stood by the window, a glass of champagne untouched in her hand, watching the world she was about to change.

The door opened behind her. Alexander's reflection appeared in the glass, his tie loosened, jacket discarded. He moved toward her ...