36_Lucian’s Leverage

Lucian

The city stretched below me, from the penthouse window, it looked almost peaceful, clean lines, golden light, the illusion of order. I sipped my espresso and let the bitter taste settle on my tongue.

Peace was a luxury people like me didn’t afford themselves. Not when there was a war to win.

The file on the table bore Max’s name.

I ran my thumb along the edge of the folder, feeling the slight bite of paper against my skin. The decision had been made. There ...