Chapter 16. A Deal in the Shadow

“I’m interested in your wife.”

Gerard's words hung in the air, creating a momentary silence that seemed to stretch for an eternity. The restaurant's opulent decor and hushed atmosphere contrasted sharply with the tension in the room.

Senator Morgan, who had been sipping his wine, froze with the crystal glass almost touching his lips. His composure wavered for a fraction of a second before he managed a tight-lipped smile.

"Mr. Huxley," he said with a hint of amusement, "I must admit, your sense of humor is quite unique."

Gerard didn't flinch. He simply regarded the Senator with a steady gaze, his icy blue eyes betraying nothing. He knew that in this world of politics and power, trust was a rare commodity.

"I assure you, Senator, I am quite serious," Gerard replied, his voice smooth as silk. "I've done my research, and I've come to understand that your wife, Amelie Morgan, shares an uncanny resemblance to someone I once knew."

The Senator's smile fa