The penthouse was silent, save for the low hum of the climate control system and the rhythmic clinking of silverware against fine china. A bouquet of white lilies sat in the center of the mahogany dining table, their scent thick and cloying, reminiscent of a funeral parlor rather than a romantic home. Outside, the Zurich skyline was a sea of glittering lights, but inside, the air was heavy with the static of an undeclared war. Kai and Elea sat opposite each other, the distance of the table feeling like a vast, treacherous territory where every movement was a tactical maneuver.
"The sea bass is excellent tonight, darling," Elea said, her voice smooth and perfectly modulated. "The chef at the market mentioned it was caught only this morning."
Kai smiled, but the warmth did not reach his
