Chapter 18

The soft glow of amber lights bounced across the bar as the three friends settled into their usual corner table. The place was alive but not rowdy, low music drifting from hidden speakers, clinking glasses, and laughter from a group of young men at the far end. A waiter approached, laying down a bucket of ice and three tall glasses.

“Your usual?” the waiter asked, already reaching for a bottle of scotch.

“Yeah, line them up,” Jakes said, loosening his tie and leaning back with an easy grin. Adrian gave a small nod, scrolling briefly through his phone before placing it face down on the table. Leonard was already drumming his fingers impatiently, eager for the first round.

The waiter poured generously, the golden liquid catching the light, before stepping back with a polite smile.

“Ah,” Leonard exhaled, lifting his glass. “Finally, something to wash off the stress of this week.”

“To the weekend,” Jakes added, clinking glasses with the others.

They t