Chapter 118

Alexander

As the man stepped forward into the dim light, I recognized Anthony’s familiar face. Relief washed over me—our backup had arrived.

Leo loosened his grip on Tyler slightly, shooting Anthony an annoyed look. “You’re late.”

Anthony adjusted his tie, looking between us and the clearly distressed bartender. “You didn’t give any signal. Looks like there’s a struggle happening here.”

Tyler’s eyes widened as he glanced between the three of us. His professional composure had completely crumbled, replaced by genuine fear. “What the fuck is happening here? I need to go back to work!”

Anthony moved toward Tyler with practiced confidence, his demeanor shifting into something more authoritative. “Carlos Rodriguez, NYPD.” The lie rolled off his tongue smoothly as he flashed what looked like a badge too quickly for Tyler to inspect. “I suggest you answer their questions.”

Tyler’s face paled. “Police? What the—”

“Listen carefully,” Anthony c