London · Shoreditch
16 February 2025 · 15:00
The second “chance encounter.” Marcus had invited her to view an ongoing construction project.
Eva wore a plain black sweater, her hair tied back, her face bare of makeup. Before their third meeting, she needed to cultivate a precise illusion—she was not a woman of threat or edge, but one who could be trusted.
They spent an hour on-site. When Marcus spoke about the project, he became entirely absorbed, his eyes lit from within. It was the language of something he genuinely loved. Eva listened, occasionally asking questions, occasionally nodding, and at moments when he spoke with particular passion, she allowed herself a look of attentive sincerity.
Afterward, they went to a nearby café.
“How did you meet your wife?” she asked.
“University
