Blackridge City's skyline shone bright under the blackness, but Dean knew the sparkle hid a whole lot more unsavory. He smoothed his suit—sparkling, black, fitted—standing alongside Thalia. She was gorgeous in a backless black dress, a cutaway revealing her brawny leg. Her chain still looped around her neck, a soft reminder she was lethal, however lovely she looked.
"You clean up well," she murmured, giving him a once-over.
Dean smirked. "You're not so bad yourself."
They stepped into the lavish hotel ballroom, the air heavy with wealth and secrets. Businessmen laughed over champagne, while politicians whispered in corners. Dean stayed close to Thalia, their chemistry simmering beneath the surface, but his focus was sharp.
Their mark: Richard Vance. A money-luring investor with hands painted red. Thalia's client had wanted him taken out—quietly.
As they navigated through the party guests, Thalia effortlessly slipped into role, charming the socialites while keeping her focus on mission. Dean played along, all smiles hiding his true intentions.
Finally, the moment came. Vance excused himself from the crowd to the restroom by himself.
Thalia shot Dean a glance. He nodded.
A couple of minutes afterwards, Vance was huddled over a stall—an unmistakable overdose. Clean. Untraceable. Exactly as Thalia had planned.
Leaving the party, Thalia leaned into Dean, her warm breath on his ear.
"Good work, partner."
Dean felt the high of success—but also the desire for her growing in strength. And he knew this was merely the start.