The polished chrome of the elevator doors reflected a figure forged in the crucible of his own demise. Zayn Carter, clad in tactical gear that whispered of Leo’s latest security upgrades, stepped out onto the lobby floor of the Hayes Tower. The air still crackled with the aftermath of the Blackthorn mercenaries' failed assault, a palpable tension hanging heavy as the scent of ozone and burnt powder. Scarlett Hayes, her usual icy composure replaced by a weary, yet fierce, determination, stood a few feet away, surveying the scene of their hard-won victory.
"They underestimated you," Scarlett stated, her voice low, cutting through the lingering chaos. "And they paid for it." She looked at Zayn, her sapphire eyes holding a newfound respect that went beyond mere alliance. "That was... efficien
