Miller wasn’t truly concerned whether Alex succeeded in getting him the board position or not. In fact, deep down, he hoped Alex failed. That way, it would provide him the perfect excuse to sever all ties with him completely. He didn’t want to be tethered directly or indirectly to Carl Moretti. The mafia’s shadow was already long and dark over Trim City, and Miller had narrowly survived too many storms to let himself get dragged into another one. His reputation was hanging by a thread, and he knew better than to let it fray.So when Alex had pleaded for a second chance, Miller hadn’t outright said no but his agreement had come with a heavy undertone of reluctance. It was strategic, not sentimental. If Alex pulled through, fine. If he didn’t, it would be the final nail, and Miller would be done with him.With that tension still hovering in the air, Alex returned to Tina’s office that afternoon. Not for business this time, but for their date the second of ten they had both agreed t

The Walton family SUV pulled into a secluded private estate hidden deep within the outskirts of Trim City. Unlike the extravagant displays of wealth that dominated the city, gold-plated gates, surveillance drones, fountains carved from pure crystal, this compound was modest, covered by the whisper of forest trees and protected by a mist that never lifted entirely. The air was heavy with a calm, almost otherworldly pressure, like the land itself was ancient and sentient.Thea stepped out of the car with a stern expression. She wore her full black War God uniform an armored coat lined with silver embroidery and a long red scarf that fluttered with the wind. Her short hair was tied up neatly, and her commanding aura had not diminished despite the casualness of the visit.Behind her, Hannah, her ever-loyal assistant, followed while inspecting the area with sharp, curious eyes. Dressed in a more modern military style, Hannah was the perfect contrast to Thea blunt, emotional, and unapolog