The rain slowed, but the sky stayed dark. New York glowed like a wounded beast, lights flickering against wet streets. Aria stood at the tall window of her penthouse, her hands resting on the glass. She had not slept. She had not eaten. She only thought.
Behind her, Vivian moved like a shadow. "The message is sent. He agreed."
Aria didn't look away from the city. "Of course he did. Sebastian never refuses an invitation."
Vivian's lips pressed tight. "Are you sure this is wise? A dinner meeting on his terms… it feels like walking into his jaws."
Aria finally turned. Her eyes were tired but sharp. "No. This time, he's walking into mine."
Vivian raised a brow. "Then let me set the place. I'll have snipers on the rooftops."
Aria shook her head. "No guns. Not yet. I want him close. I want him to believe he still owns me."
Vivian exhaled, frustrated. "You're playing with fire."
"I know." Aria smirked faintly. "But he forgets, I'm fire too."
