ELIAS'S POV

The central campus courtyard was busy at noon. Students everywhere. Walking to classes. Sitting on benches. Talking in groups.

Perfect. Public. Witnessed. Harder for anything bad to happen with so many people around.

We arrived early. Found a spot near the fountain. Open area. Clear sightlines. Could see anyone approaching.

Ronan stood beside me. Tense. Alert. Ready to fight if needed.

"You think he'll come alone?" I asked.

"If he doesn't, we leave immediately."

"And if he ...