Chapter 14

The neon lights of The Scarlet Room flickered against the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the street. The high-end bar was known for its exclusivity—where criminals, informants, and those with something to hide came to drink in the shadows. It was the kind of place where secrets were currency, and Victor Langley was rumored to be a frequent guest.

Lily adjusted the sleek black dress she had chosen for the night, its fabric hugging her frame just enough to blend in with the wealthier clientele. She had to look the part. Noah, standing beside her, was less than thrilled.

"This is reckless," he muttered under his breath.

Lily shot him a glance. "You've said that three times already."

"Because it's true." He let out a frustrated sigh. "What's the plan? Just walk up to him and hope he spills all his secrets?"

Lily smirked. "Something like that."

Before Noah could argue, she pushed open the doors.

The interior was dimly lit, with velvet curtains and golden chandeliers giving it a rich yet suffocating atmosphere. Conversations hummed around them—whispers, laughter, business deals made over expensive whiskey.

Lily's eyes scanned the room, searching. Then, she spotted him.

Victor Langley sat at the bar, a glass of bourbon in hand, his suit crisp and perfectly tailored. He looked older than she had expected—late forties, with graying hair and tired eyes that hinted at a man constantly looking over his shoulder.

She inhaled deeply. Showtime.

She made her way toward the bar, slipping into the seat next to him with practiced ease. "Bartender, I'll have what he's having."

Langley barely glanced at her, taking a slow sip of his drink. "That's a bold choice," he muttered.

Lily let out a small, amused hum. "I like bold choices."

Langley turned his head slightly, finally looking at her. His gaze was calculating. "You don't belong here."

Lily tilted her head, offering a smirk. "And yet, here I am."

For a moment, Langley said nothing, just studying her as if trying to piece together a puzzle. Then, to her surprise, he chuckled. "Alright, I'll bite. Who sent you?"

Lily's heart skipped, but she forced a coy smile. "Do I look like the kind of woman who takes orders?"

Langley gave her a skeptical look but seemed entertained. "You look like trouble."

She leaned in slightly. "Maybe. But the interesting kind."

Noah, watching from across the room, looked ready to intervene, but Lily shot him the smallest warning glance. This was working. She had Langley's attention.

Langley swirled his drink before speaking again. "Alright, mystery girl. What do you really want?"

Lily met his gaze and gave him the most honest answer she could without giving herself away. "Answers."

Langley's eyes darkened slightly. "Answers get people killed."

Lily smiled, but there was no warmth behind it. "I know."

Langley watched her for a long moment, then let out a quiet sigh. "Alright, mystery girl. Let's talk."