The rain had washed the city streets into a shimmering black mirror, but inside the Grand Ballroom of the Pierre Hotel, the air smelled of vintage champagne and old money. Julian Vane adjusted his silk bowtie, his fingers trembling slightly. The notification from his CFO was still burning a hole in his mind, but he forced a confident smirk.It has to be a glitch, he told himself. A clerical error from the Syndicate's side. Once I meet the Chairperson tonight, I’ll smooth it all over.Beside him, Sophia was preening. She wore a gown encrusted with real Canary diamonds, her chin tilted high. "Don't worry, Julian. My father has a seat on the commerce board. One word from him, and the Everett Syndicate will be begging to partner with you."They approached the velvet ropes of the main hall. Two guards, taller and more imposing than any security Julian had ever hired, stood like granite statues."Names?" the lead guard asked, his voice a low rumble."Julian Vane and Sophia Laurent," Julian
Last Updated : 2026-03-18 Read more