The city skyline was bathed in the molten glow of sunset, each building outlined in streaks of gold and crimson. The penthouse felt almost alive, the space vibrating with tension that neither Justina Ashes nor Carson Wills could ignore. Justina leaned against the balcony railing, the silk of her robe catching the last rays of sunlight, fingers brushing against the cool metal as though anchoring herself to something real.

Carson entered quietly, but his presence was immediately overwhelming. She ...