★★A Day Earlier…★★
The VIP lounge was dimly lit with golden tones and soft jazz music floating in the background.
Nicholas sat alone in the corner booth, dressed in a sleek black suit, his eyes flickering between the doorway and his watch.
Ten minutes passed before Clara walked in, her heels clicking confidently against the marble floor. Her dress clung to her curves and her lips curled into a flirtatious smile.
"My dear," Nicholas said, standing to receive her with a mock disappointment in his eyes, "you kept me waiting."
"I'm sorry…" Clara purred, brushing her hand across his chest. "I just had to look good for you."
Nicholas leaned back and narrowed his eyes slightly. "Tomorrow is the day. You'll carry out the operation, and it must look like anything but a planned hit. No traces. No loopholes. No drama."
Clara tilted her head, momentarily faltering. "It's a risky move, Nicholas. You know that."
"Oh?" He scoffed.
