The dawn had barely broken, yet the city seemed restless, as if it too sensed the turbulence about to enter Justina Ashes and Carson Wills’ lives. The penthouse, usually a sanctuary of soft light and quiet luxury, now felt claustrophobic, thick with tension, unspoken questions, and the lingering scent of passion from the night before.

Justina leaned against the balcony railing, her gaze sweeping across streets still wet from rain, reflecting the first hints of sunlight. Every shadow seemed ...