The Years That Followed
Alec played the long game. Became the perfect brother. The confidant. Even after he betrayed Leon in Prague the bastard had forgiven him. Leon was stupid, soft and full of himself like Alec didn't deserve his anger.
So Alec became the perfect brother. The one who smiled and clapped when Leon won again. He learned how to say the right things, nod at the right times, offer advice that subtly led Leon into traps that looked like gifts.
He studied Leon obsessively. Watched his body language. His tone. His schedule. He memorized the way Leon sharpened knives, how he trained with firearms, how he tapped his fingers when annoyed.
He even helped raise Leon’s empire from the shadows. Poured in strategies, information, logistics. Leon trusted him. Loved him, even.
And A
