Jasmine's POV
The rain had stopped, but the city still smelled like it… wet asphalt, electricity, and the faint trace of smoke. I stepped out of the car and pulled my coat tighter as the night breeze brushed my skin.
KnightCorp's headquarters faded behind me, but my mind hadn't left that boardroom. Ares' words still echoed: "You've changed… but not enough to lie to me."
He wasn't wrong. I had lied. Just not about what he thought.
The driver stayed silent as I walked down the narrow wooden pier. The city lights glimmered across the dark water, reflections rippling like broken glass. I spotted Grayson Vale near the edge… hands in his pockets, coat flapping softly in the wind.
He always chose strange meeting places… quiet, isolated, away from prying eyes. He said it was habit. I said it was paranoia.
"Still prefer dramatic scenery, I see." I said, my heels clicking against the damp wood as I approached.
