The room emptied with purpose. Every movement aligned with the decision already made. James and Monroe led Hudson and Cruz to the adjacent receiving suite—a private lounge reserved for high-profile clients when Damien was unavailable to receive them immediately. Those granted access there were never ordinary guests. The space was designed for discretion and comfort. A refined lounge more than a waiting room, it featured deep leather seating, polished wood finishes, and a private bar stocked with rare spirits and premium beverages. Even the bottled water was imported sparkling mineral from an exclusive European label. Beyond it, a private powder room allowed guests to freshen up in complete privacy. It sat just outside the smaller executive conference room within Damien’s office—the one

