Chapter 1: The Interview

The private booth at Le Cygne was far enough from the main dining room that the clatter of plates and low buzz of conversation felt distant. Candlelight danced on white tablecloths and expensive wine glasses. It was the kind of place where big deals were made—and secrets buried.

Katelyn Reeves sat with her back to the wall, posture straight, hands resting around a glass of white wine she hadn’t touched. At thirty-two, she looked more like a serious scientist than a company boss: short dark hair tucked behind one ear, sharp blue eyes, black turtleneck and tailored slacks. Simple, no nonsense. A sleek smartwatch glowed faintly on her wrist.

Across from her sat Dana Ellis—twenty-three, curvy, dressed like she’d stepped out of a 1950s magazine. Navy polka-dot dress, perfect victory rolls in her brown hair, bold red lipstick. She sipped water, brown eyes calm but taking in everything.

The third chair was empty.

Katelyn checked her watch. “He’s late.”

Dana smiled slightly. “Good salesmen always are. Makes you want them more.”

As if on cue, Harry Thompson appeared at the edge of the booth. Tall, broad-shouldered, forty-one, charcoal suit fitting him well. Dark hair just starting to show gray, warm brown eyes, and a smile that looked friendly—but wasn’t quite. He carried the faint scent of expensive cologne as he sat down, offering a hand with a heavy vintage Rolex.