As the clock struck midnight, Dustin bid Natasha farewell and returned to his villa in South City. Their parting carried a tinge of sorrow. Even so, it was necessary to avoid drawing attention.

Dustin was going on a dangerous journey. He was determined to keep Natasha out of harm's way. From now on, they would meet in secret, or they would minimize their encounters.

Natasha was Simon's granddaughter. That title made her shine too brightly. Thus, spending too much time with her risked exposin