A SEAT AT THE TABLE

Chloe barely had time to process her small victory before Milan sent another message.

"Dress elegantly. I'll send a car at eight."

No context. No explanation. Just another test.

By the time the sleek black car arrived, Chloe was dressed in a fitted black dress, subtle but elegant, with her hair loosely curled. She had no idea where he was taking her, but she knew one thing—tonight wasn't just dinner. It was another game.

The car stopped outside an upscale restaurant, one with no name on the door, the kind of place only the elite knew about. Milan was already waiting inside, dressed sharply in a dark suit, his presence commanding.

"Right on time," he said, standing as she approached their private table.

"Wouldn't want to keep you waiting," she replied smoothly, sliding into her seat.

The restaurant was dimly lit, with soft jazz playing in the background. The waitstaff was eerily silent, moving with precision. This wasn't just a dinner spot—it was a meeting place for people who didn't like being watched.

As the waiter poured wine, Milan studied her. "I'm curious, Chloe. You're full of surprises. Tell me—what do you really want?"

She met his gaze, keeping her expression unreadable. "I could ask you the same thing."

He smirked. "A clever deflection. But I wonder... are you enjoying this?"

Before she could answer, someone approached their table. A man—older, sharp-eyed, with an air of authority. He placed a firm hand on Milan's shoulder.

"Milan. I didn't expect to see you here tonight."

Milan's expression barely shifted, but Chloe sensed the tension. "I didn't expect you either, Viktor."

Viktor's gaze shifted to Chloe, assessing her. "And who is this?"

Milan leaned back, the corner of his lips lifting slightly. "This is Chloe. She's… someone worth keeping an eye on."

The words sent a chill down her spine. Was it a warning? A compliment? Or both?

Viktor smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Interesting. Let's see how long that lasts."

As he walked away, Milan swirled his wine, watching her reaction. "I hope you're ready, Chloe. Things are about to get even more interesting."

She held his gaze, her heart pounding. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't."

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