The penthouse lab at Thorne Capital was a temple of modern architecture, suspended high above the glittering grid of the city. Unlike the claustrophobic, windowless basement Julian had shoved her into at Vance Innovations, Damian’s private sanctuary was a sprawling expanse of floor-to-ceiling glass,

The fluorescent lights of the Vance Innovations basement lab buzzed with a sickly, relentless hum. It was a stark, depressing contrast to the midnight elegance of Damian’s penthouse, but Clara welcomed the sterile environment. It made it easier to disassociate. It made it easier to play the part.

S

*I see you, Clara.*

The words pulsed on the black screen in stark, glowing white text. Clara’s heart slammed against her ribs, the sudden spike of adrenaline turning her hands ice-cold. For three agonizing seconds, she couldn't breathe. Floor 40. Julian’s private executive suite.

She didn't hesit