Chapter 16- A day before the wedding

Stephen's face tightened as he looked back and forth between Victor and Marianne, suspicion hanging in the air like a heavy fog. He didn't waste a moment before speaking with authority, "Victor, we need to talk. Now. In my office."

Victor nodded, sensing the urgency in Stephen’s voice. He shot a quick glance at Marianne, hoping she wouldn’t catch onto their conversation. Following Stephen's lead, Victor trailed closely behind as they made their way to Stephen’s office, his mind already racing with anticipation of what was to come.

Inside the office, tension filled the room as both men settled into their seats, their eyes locking in a serious exchange. Stephen broke the silence, his tone commanding, "Go on, Victor."

Victor, who had been prepared for a different discussion, felt a flood of relief wash over him. "It’s about your brother," he began, recalling their earlier conversation about bringing Stephen’s brother back to the empire.

Stephen's demeanor softened slightly as he list