The wind howled outside the mansion like a warning. Inside, the grand hall was silent except for the sharp echo of heels striking the marble floor. Elena stood at the center of the room, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it might break through her chest. In her trembling hands was a thin folder—the one piece of evidence that could destroy everything. Across from her stood Adrian, his dark eyes filled with confusion. “Why did you call me here?” he asked quietly. Elena swallowed. Her throat felt tight. “Because… you deserve to know the truth.” Adrian’s jaw tightened. “What truth?” For a moment she couldn’t speak. The words felt heavy, like chains around her lungs. Then she forced them out. “The person you trusted… the person you protected…” her voice shook. “She isn’t who you

