At What Cost

Diane's POV

The shrill ring of my phone pierced through the morning quiet, startling me from my thoughts as I sat at Joan's kitchen table, absently stirring my tea. Guerrero's name flashed on the screen, and I felt my pulse quicken. After his cold, dismissive response to the Elite Group contract, I wasn't sure what to expect from him.

"Mrs. Ashton," his voice came through the line, and I was surprised by how different he sounded...subdued, almost vulnerable. Gone was the confident, commanding tone I'd grown accustomed to. "I hope I'm not calling too early."

"Not at all," I replied cautiously. "What can I do for you, Mr. Guerrero?"