Noah spent the night at his parents' place.
After breakfast with the family, he ruffled Emily's hair one last time before heading out.
The Lykan roared through morning traffic toward the Crown Veridian. Two contracts sat in his leather portfolio—one for Volkov, another for Lucas. They had different terms, but ones that both prodigies couldn't resist.
The hotel lobby gleamed with morning light as Noah strode in. Lucas was already there, perched awkwardly on the edge of a plush chair, looking like he'd wandered into a palace by mistake.
"Hey," Noah said, placing a hand on Lucas's shoulder.
Lucas jumped, then stood quickly. "Hi, good morning."
They settled into the seating area, Lucas's eyes darting around the opulent surroundings.
"So what are we doing here?" Lucas asked, keeping his voice low as if afraid to disturb the luxury around them.
"You'll see." Noah fired off a quick text to Volkov.
