Riverside Country Club.
Vanessa Sterling sat across from Harrison Everhart—Kael's father—in the club's private dining room, afternoon tea spread before them.
"Thank you for meeting with me, Harrison," Vanessa said, pouring tea with practiced grace. "I know it's been awkward since Kael and I... ended things."
Harrison, a distinguished man in his sixties with silver hair and sharp eyes, nodded stiffly. "I was surprised to get your call. What did you want to discuss?"
"Kael. And his... situation."
"You mean Asher and the children."
"Yes." Vanessa set down the teapot carefully. "I'm concerned. As someone who cares about Kael, I thought you should know some things."
Harrison's expression grew guarded. "What things?"
Vanessa pulled out a tablet, expression grave. "I've been doing some research. Into Asher Quinn-Park's background. His financial situation. His... activities."
"Why would you be researching Asher?"
"Because I care about Kael. And I'm worried he's being manipulated."
