Adrian's POV
The idea struck me with perfect, crystalline clarity—the kind of brilliant solution that only emerges when alcohol loosens the constraints of conventional thinking. I set down my bourbon glass and turned to face my grandmother, excitement cutting through the haze of whiskey and resentment.
"Nicole," I said simply, the name carrying the weight of everything I'd been unable to articulate.
Luna Roanna's perfectly sculpted eyebrow arched with interest. "Explain."
"Nicole Montgomery." I began pacing now, my mind racing faster than it had in weeks. "She has a PhD in biochemistry, specialized training in pharmaceutical development."
My grandmother's lips curved into a smile that would have made a shark proud. "Continue."
"More importantly," I continued, warming to
