DANTE'S POV
“Given recent developments, the family has chosen to proceed independently in all matters concerning Aria’s safety and recovery. We are no longer affiliated with Dante Crowe or his operations in this matter.”
That’s it. No explanation. I read it once. Then again. Then set the paper down without a word. Across from me, Lucas watches carefully.
“You look like you want to break something,” Lucas says.
I lean back in my chair, expression unreadable.
“They did a good job.”
Lucas exhales lightly.
“Yeah.”
This isn’t just a statement. It’s a performance. And every word of it cuts exactly the way it’s supposed to.
—
It doesn’t take long for the rumors to follow. They spread the way they always do—
Fast. Messy. Uncontrolled.
—
“Heard her family cut him off.”
“Apparently he
