365 A Roman Encounter

Jackson stood with his arms crossed, squinting slightly as he surveyed his surroundings. “So, you’re in Rome too?”

A man in a sharp suit replied, “I just ran into madam’s uncle. He mentioned coming here to meet a friend. Was it you who brought him here, Jackson?”

Jackson smirked, his tone lazy, almost indifferent. “What if it was me? What if it wasn’t? Why are you stopping me from leaving? This is Rome, not back home. I could easily have you arrested for unlawful detention.”

From inside a nearby café, a man in a suit and sunglasses called out softly, “Dylan.”

“Yes, sir?” Dylan responded promptly.

“Invite Jackson in for a cup of coffee.”

Dylan hesitated. “Sir, Jackson doesn’t seem too interested in talking. He’s being quite hostile.”

The man sighed. “That’s just how he is. It’s not about you. Go ahead, tell him it’s me inviting him.”

“Yes, sir.” Dylan walked back to Jackson’s side.