Alliance Made

Ezra sat alone at a corner table in the familiar restaurant, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the wooden surface.

The air was thick with the scent of roasted meats and freshly uncorked wine, but his mind was too occupied to take notice. He had reserved a private room at the back, away from prying eyes and curious ears, but for now, he waited in the main dining area.

His thoughts were a whirl of strategies and contingencies, each more elaborate than the last. He hated feeling cornered, but recent events had left him with few choices.

The door swung open, and a gust of cool night air swept into the restaurant. Ezra glanced up, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the newcomers.

None of them were Helena. He checked his watch, noting that she was a few minutes late.

At home, Olivia, Gen, and Red were keeping a close eye on Griffin's secretary, Natalia. Her presence was a constant reminder of the precarious position they were in.