The cabana fell silent. The sea breeze that had once felt warm now cut like ice.
Damien’s head snapped toward James, his jaw ticking. “Why?” His voice was calm, but it carried the weight of a storm waiting to break.
James shifted, his expression uneasy. “I only managed to reach her assistant. Madam arrived yesterday, and late last night she received a new lead—something she says can’t wait. When word reached her that you weren’t heading back today, she insisted on flying out to see you in person. And… it seems word of the conflict with the Volkovs has reached her as well. She wants to speak with you directly. She’s already in the air, on her way here.”
Maya’s pulse stuttered. Madam? Did he mean… his mother? She was coming here?
Ashcroft let out a low whistle, running a hand through his
