RISE OF THE EX-CONVICT

CHAPTER 182

Nicholas stepped out of the bathroom, the steam from his warm shower still clinging to his skin. He briskly dried himself with a soft towel, relishing the comfort against his chilled flesh.

Glancing out the window, he couldn't help but smile at the brilliant sunlight that bathed his room, a stark contrast to the gloomy weather that had plagued the city for the past few weeks.

"Finally, summer is here," he murmured to himself, a sense of relief and anticipation washing over him. The past several weeks had been a whirlwind, both personally and professionally, and Nicholas was more than ready for a much-needed respite.

Crossing the room, he opened the doors of the closet, his eyes scanning the neatly organized array of shirts, trousers, and suits. Selecting a striped ash-colored shirt and a pair of black trousers, he laid them gently on the bed, his movements unhurried and deliberate.

Just as he was about to start dressing up, a familiar vibration broke the