The penthouse is thick with the scent of expensive whiskey and cigar smoke. Alaric’s friends are laughing loudly around the lounge, but his eyes are fixed solely on you as you zip up a bag containing hundreds of millions in cash.

"Listen to me," Alaric says, his voice raspy from the drinks, leaning back with a glass in hand. "Don't you dare add any 'extra' activities to your rundown today. You go to the bank, you finish the deposit, and you come straight back here. Understand?"

You simply nod, preparing to leave. He narrows his eyes. "Are you driving?"

"I'll just call a cab..." you mutter.

Alaric slams his glass on the table, his face darkening with instant irritation. "What the hell did I buy you that car for if you’re not going to use it?"

When you explain that the car is still at your mother’s house since you just got back, he doesn't hesitate. He pulls a spare set of keys from his pocket and tosses them across the room. They land right at your feet.

"Use mine. No taxis," he snaps, leaning forward. "If you take a cab, I know damn well you'll end up sneaking off to see that 'boyfriend' of yours. Go. Now. And keep your live location shared with me the entire time. If that dot stops moving for even a minute, I'm coming to find you."