The invitation arrived on handmade paper, delivered by a chauffeur in a car worth more than most Lagosians earned in a lifetime. The envelope was thick, cream-colored, sealed with wax impressed with a family crest. Inside, calligraphy announced that Alhaji Rafiu Bello—no relation to Senator Bello, Elian noted—requested the pleasure of Elian's company at a private dinner.
Alhaji Rafiu was a name whispered in the corridors of power. He owned nothing, officially—no companies, no properties, no visible wealth. But everyone knew he controlled shipping, oil, construction, and half the politicians in Lagos. He was the Network's elder statesman, the man who had built the system that men like Chief Adeleke now operated.
And he wanted to have dinner with Elian Athen.
Samuel was immediately suspic
