Chapter 42

After a few seconds passed, he let out a long exhale and gave me a quiet nod. I took charge of the situation, and as the staff guided me up the narrow staircase, Thomas fell in step behind. At the top, they led us to a secluded table set against a large window that framed the most breathtaking panorama of the city. I settled into my seat, reached for my files, and gestured for Thomas to do the same. We sat across from one another in silence until I peeled off my mask, preparing to speak more freely.

“So,” I began, adjusting my papers on the table, “what would you like to eat?”

He stared at me with those deadpan eyes. “Water,” he answered without inflection.

I raised an eyebrow and rolled my eyes at him. “Really, Thomas? Of all the things on the menu, you choose water?”

He shrugged one shoulder in an almost imperceptible motion. “To be honest, kid, I don’t see why I’m even here. What do you want?”

His voice had a rough edge I hadn’t expected. My jaw drop