The calm of the coastal villa had been shattered, though the waves continued their endless rhythm, indifferent to the danger looming over Damien Hayes and Isabella Vicks. The note from Marcus Vale had stirred more than just concern—it ignited a renewed sense of purpose, a determination to protect not just themselves, but the truth, and each other.
Isabella paced the villa’s terrace, the ocean breeze tugging at her hair, her mind racing with possibilities. “He’s not just a shadow anymore,” she murmured, voice low. “This… this feels personal now.”
Damien appeared behind her, hands resting lightly on her shoulders, grounding her. “It is personal,” he admitted, voice calm but serious. “Marcus Vale thrives on control. Threatening us now—it’s his way of reminding us he’s still in the game. But
