Lucas Hayes stood by the tall windows of the penthouse suite, watching the city lights flicker on below. Eight o’clock sharp. He wasn’t used to waiting, but something told him Ella Morgan would make him do it anyway.
He’d chosen the Grand Meridian for its discretion. No press, no curious eyes. Just a private conference room turned temporary office, complete with his legal team on standby and a judge who owed him a favor. Everything was controlled. Exactly how he liked it.
The soft knock came at 8:07. Lucas nodded to his assistant, who opened the door.
Ella stepped in wearing the same navy blouse from yesterday, paired with dark jeans and a determined look that didn’t quite hide the shadows under her eyes. Her hair was pulled back in a simple ponytail, a few strands escaping around her f
