Ariel expected them to go back to the mansion, but instead, he led her into another building that felt even more private than the mall.

After taking the elevator to another floor, she realized the place was a restaurant, yet it was empty upon their arrival.

No voices. No clinking cutlery. No low hum of conversation. Just soft golden light, white linen tables, and floor-to-ceiling glass that revealed the city stretching endlessly beneath them.

Her steps slowed as she stared around. ...