Chapter 100. Turning Point

Andre's POV

[Flashback]

Monday night started like any other night out with the guys.

An old friend was throwing a small party at a high-end lounge downtown. I wasn’t planning to stay long—I had meetings with the new investors in the morning, and I’d probably feel drained if I attended this party. But sometimes, showing your face matters more than the fun itself. I figured I’d have one drink, chat a bit, then leave early.

But fate had other plans.

I didn’t even see her at first. Not until I was halfway through my first glass, and then—there she was.

Alisha.

Of all people. Of all nights.

She stood across the room, leaning against the bar like she owned the place. The lighting hit her just right—of course it did. She looked confident, flirtatious, like trouble with red lipstick.

I looked away instantly, pretending I hadn’t noticed her. But I could feel her sharp gaze, cutting through the crowd and slicing its way to