The Rodriguez private jet cut through clouds over the Mediterranean, its sleek form a silver needle against the darkening sky. Inside the luxurious cabin, Alex studied the message on Sonia's phone for the third time, each word a calculated weapon aimed at the fragile trust between them.
"She's playing mind games," James said, holstering his weapon as the pilot announced their approach to Monaco. "Claire excels at psychological warfare."
Alex looked at Sonia, who sat across from him, her gaze fixed on the distant coastline glittering below. Her composure remained intact, but he recognized the subtle tension in her shoulders—the same tension she'd displayed during high-stakes negotiations.
"What do you think?" he asked her quietly.
Sonia turned to face him, her eyes clear and direct. "I
