(Two perspectives in this chapter: Tommy first... then Maria.)
Tommy
The invitation was sent with no attachments. Bring no one else, just myself.
No women, no back up.
Maria warned me that she felt something off about Alexander sending a 'peace offering' invitation to talk business.
I had been in hundreds of negotiations.
I knew posturing. I knew intimidation. I knew when a man was measuring margins.
But this?
This wasn’t margins.
This was focus.
The meeting was set in a private dining room overlooking the river. Neutral territory. Polished wood. Crystal glasses. No visible weapons — which meant plenty were hidden.
Alexander Mossimo stood when we entered.
Not just when I entered.
When Maria did.
That was the first tell.
“Maria,” Mossimo said smoothly, as if he’d been expecti
