The rain tapped steadily against the windows of the old diner, its neon sign flickering weakly in the stormy night. Dua sat alone in a corner booth, her back to the wall, a half-empty cup of coffee cooling in front of her. She didn’t belong here—her sharp suit, crimson lipstick, and the glint of diamonds at her ears made that clear.

The door creaked open, and a man stepped inside, his coat soaked from the rain. He hesitated, scanning the room until his eyes locked with Dua’s. She raised an eyebrow and gestured to the seat across from her with the slightest tilt of her head.

“You look like hell,” she remarked, her voice low and calm.

The man slid into the booth, glancing nervously over his shoulder. “This is risky. If your people find out—”

Dua cut him off with a cold smile. “If your boss finds out, you mean. Relax, you’re safe... for now.”

She leaned forward, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Let’s talk about how you’re going to help me burn his empire to the ground.”

The man swallowed hard, glancing again at the rain-streaked windows. Outside, a black car idled, its headlights piercing through the darkness like watchful eyes.

Dua’s smile widened. “Don’t worry. I always keep my promises.”