Lucien brushed past Ash, taking bites of his pizza as he walked toward the bedroom. Ash turned, curling his fists. "Fine. And if it was you, you'll have trouble with me."
...
Farther into the city, Celeste, dressed in black, a shawl over her head and dark glasses, met a man beside a parked car. She handed him a black suitcase; he unlatched it, glanced inside at the neat bundles of cash, then closed it and grinned. Celeste's voice dropped low. "Tomorrow, press heavy charges against her. Don't let my brother sway you; I know you still have feelings for him. He'll try to soften your resolve. Make sure she looks as guilty as everyone expects, or else."
The man inclined his head. "I won't fail you."
Celeste gave a small, satisfied smile, then returned to the car and drove away.
...
