Chapter 107

Stefan Rodriguez waited at the corner table of the dimly lit bar, nursing a drink he didn’t want. The place reeked of stale beer and cheap perfume, nothing like the upscale establishments he’d frequented during better days. But that was the point. No one would recognize him here. No reporters lurking in corners, no business associates to witness his fall from grace.

No one except the woman who had helped destroy his life.

The door swung open, letting in a blast of chill evening air. Rose Lewis stood framed in the doorway, scanning the room with narrowed eyes. When she spotted Stefan, her face hardened into the mask he’d grown too familiar with, beautiful and cold as carved ice.

She wore black from head to toe, her outfit probably costing more than most people’s monthly rent despite her recent financial troubles. Always keeping up appearances. Always the perfect facade.

Rose threaded her way between tables, ignoring the appreciative glances from men seated at