The drive from the outskirts of the city into downtown Manhattan was smooth, the steady hum of the SUV’s tires acting as a soothing backdrop to my thoughts. Marcus handled the chaotic city traffic with the kind of calm precision I had come to rely on. By the time we pulled up to the curb outside the upscale Italian bistro Liam had chosen, the midday sun was reflecting sharply off the towering glass skyscrapers.
"I'll be right out here, Ma'am," Marcus said, glancing at the restaurant's glass facade before shifting the car into park. "Take your time."
"Thanks, Marcus," I smiled, sliding out of the backseat.
The restaurant was beautiful, filled with the low murmur of business lunches and the rich aroma of garlic and truffle oil. I spotted Liam immediately. He was sitting at a corner table,
