**Hospital Rooftop — 7:08 AM**
Emerie leaned against the concrete ledge, paper cup of coffee cradled in both hands. Wind tugged at her ponytail. Below, the city throbbed awake.
Her phone buzzed.
**Albert**:
*I want to talk. No force. No drivers. Just me.*
She typed:
*If you come near my apartment again, I press send.*
**Albert**:
*Then meet me somewhere public. Let's talk terms.*
She stared at the screen, then typed back:
*One hour. Westview Café. Bring nothing.*
**Westview Café — 8:01 AM**
Albert was already seated, no guards in sight. Just a simple black coat and a cappuccino in front of him. He looked tired, like a man who hadn't slept, which pleased her more than she admitted.
Emerie slid into the booth. “Say your piece."
He looked up. “You win."
She blinked. “Excuse me?
