Eventually, the apartment fell silent as night took over the city.
West stood.
"It's time."
Aria nodded reluctantly.
She walked him to the door of the study, opened it slightly, and peeked out.
The living room was dark.
She gestured and West stepped out quietly.
They moved toward the apartment entrance together.
West reached for the handle and then—
The lights came on.
Ross stood there, leaning against the wall with his arms folded.
West froze.
Aria froze.
Ross tilted his head.
"…You've been here this whole time?"
Aria stepped forward immediately.
"Yes."
Ross's eyes shifted to her.
"And you didn't tell me?"
Her expression hardened.
"How could I?"
She crossed her arms.
"You've been hunting him like prey with the rest of those other gangs."
She gestured toward West.
"Poor guy just wants to be left alone."
Ross's jaw tightened.
"You're supposed to be on my side."
His voice wasn't loud but he looked passed.
