Chapter 27: Trial by Fire.
The bar was all dim lighting and expensive liquor, the kind of place where deals were made in whispers and fortunes crumbled with a single misplaced word. Gilded fixtures cast a warm glow over velvet booths, the scent of whiskey and cigars thick in the air. A live jazz band played in the background, their melody weaving through the low hum of conversation. The people here weren’t just rich—they were connected. Politicians, businessmen, and the kind of criminals who wore tailored suits instead of ski masks.
Cielle sat at the far end of the bar, watching as Salvatore moved through the room with effortless ease. He was in his element here, all charm and quiet menace wrapped in an easy smile.
He hadn’t given her much instruction—just pointed out a few key figures.
