Chapter 34: The Smile Before the Strike

The underground gym beneath Lucian's penthouse still smelled of sweat and rubber mats. Steam rose from his skin as the words landed harder than any punch thrown during training.

"Tell Aria the orders from Zurich are still active," the man had mocked before security dragged him away. "For her... or for the boy next door."

The door slammed shut.

Aria didn't move.

He sat on the gym floor, his back against the mirrored wall, breathing slowly. The sweat cooled