Ivy’s POV
"Ivy, we need to talk," came a smooth, calm voice as I walked briskly through the quiet corridor of the old community center. I had just left a meeting with Kian when I heard it—a voice that sent a shiver down my spine, both for its tone and for the man behind it.
I stopped and looked around, my heart pounding. Standing near the entrance was a tall, well-dressed man in a tailored suit. His sharp features were softened by a friendly smile, yet his eyes held a depth that made me uneasy.
"Who are you?" I asked cautiously, folding my arms across my chest.
He stepped forward, his presence filling the space between us. "My name is Victor Ashford." His voice was measured, persuasive. "I have been waiting for you, Ivy."
I took a step back. Victor Ashford—the name was infamous in the
