Chapter 30

The rain hammered against the sleek black roof of the car, a relentless rhythm mirroring the turbulent emotions churning within Carole. The city lights, blurred and shimmering through the rain-streaked windshield, seemed to pulse with a frantic energy, a fitting backdrop to the high-stakes conversation unfolding between her and Royce. The plush leather seats, usually a source of comfort, felt constricting, a physical manifestation of the pressure she felt. The faint, persistent scent of Royce's cologne – a sophisticated blend of sandalwood and spice – hung in the air, a subtle, almost intoxicating reminder of the charged atmosphere between them.