Elias POV
I shuffle the remaining cards even though it is not my turn.
“I built a system that redirected insurance payouts into accounts that did not exist on paper. When the companies collapsed, the investigations pointed at middle managers who had nothing to do with it. Three of them took their own lives. One drove his car into a bridge support. The state decided I was the root. Fifteen years. Eligible for parole in nine if I stay quiet and useful.”
Kai lets out a low whistle. “Cold.”
“Necessary,” I say. “At the time it felt necessary.”
Jace wins the next hand.
“Did you miss anything out there? Real food? Soft bed? Someone waiting?”
“Quiet,” I answered. “I miss the quiet that does not come with concrete walls.”
Kai takes the third hand. He does not ask a question right away. He
