Marcus stood outside the penthouse with a bouquet of white lilies resting comfortably in one hand. As the elevator doors opened, he offered the same warm, easy smile that had earned him the respect of so many members of the club.
"There you are," he greeted pleasantly. "I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time."
Aria looked genuinely surprised.
"Marcus? What are you doing here?"
"I was in the neighborhood after a meeting." He lifted the bouquet slightly. "I thought I'd stop by and see how you're doing."
Before Aria could answer, Dominic stepped quietly beside her. His posture remained relaxed, but there was a subtle protectiveness in the way he naturally closed the distance between them.
Marcus noticed it, though he gave no indication.
"I won't stay long," he said. "I just... I've be
