Chapter 312

Ethan Roscente stood at the corridor corner, his hawk-like gaze locked onto the private dining room where Vivian Laurent sat. His long fingers absently traced the cufflinks, knuckles turning white.

Inside the room, Vivian faced Dominic Atlante across the massive round table. With only two occupants, the space felt unnervingly vast.

"Where's Finn?" Vivian arched a brow.

Her fingertips tapped the table as her wary eyes scanned the tableware. Dining with a crime lord made even the water glass seem suspect.

"He's on assignment." Dominic's expression remained unreadable.

In truth, he'd forbidden Finn from coming. The persistent brat had only backed down after one lethal glare.

Vivian smirked and quickly texted Finn. Her phone vibrated instantly: "On a mission, enjoy your dinner."

Dominic ordered with practiced elegance, handing the tablet to the waiter. His refined movements betrayed none of his underworld brutality.

"Keeping busy, Ms. Laurent?" He dabbed his napkin, the question deceptively casual.

"Barely have time to breathe." Her spine stiffened.

"Need assistance?"

"Not causing trouble would be help enough."

Dominic leaned forward suddenly, danger flashing in his eyes. "Some people meddle in others' affairs—steal what isn't theirs. Don't you think they deserve to die?"

Her fingers stilled. The threat was clear. Those arms had been military property—she'd merely returned them.

"Reclaiming stolen goods isn't theft." Her retort was razor-sharp.

Their gazes clashed, plunging the room into icy silence. The waiter nearly dropped the next course.

Then Dominic chuckled low. Both maintained the charade of civility, neither breaching the unspoken truce.

The meal progressed like a duel. Vivian barely touched her food before setting down her fork.

"Thanks for the hospitality." She rose to leave.

Dominic wiped his mouth deliberately. "My pleasure. After all, you're my nephew's... friend."

He emphasized the last word, his smirk loaded with implication.

At the door, Vivian turned abruptly. "Since Finn works under me now, I'd appreciate some... restraint."

Her warning was clear: next time she intercepted his shipments, gloves would come off.

Dominic swirled his wineglass, the crimson liquid mirroring his cold smile. This game had only just begun.