Chapter 24 - THE QUIET AFTERMATH
The city returned to a deceptive sense of calm, though the subterranean balance of power had shifted permanently.
No rival syndicate dared challenge the Sterling empire, and local authorities knew better than to interfere with their operations.
The luxurious dining club resumed its exclusive rhythm, welcoming high-society patrons who remained blissfully ignorant of past wars.
Elena moved between the tables with her signature poise, pouring wine and taking orders with serene professional grace.
A wealthy hedge-fund manager tried to snap his fingers to catch her attention, his hand raised arrogantly in the air.
Before he could utter a single word, his dining companion slapped his hand down onto the table in sheer panic.
"Are you insane? Do you want to end up like Julian Vance?" his companion hissed frantically across the white tablecloth.
The manager turned pale, shrinking back into his seat and offering Elena a terrified, apologetic nod of absolute submission.
May you like
Elena acknowledged him with a faint, polite smile, her dark eyes concealing the legendary tactical mind working beneath her updo.
She walked back toward the service kitchen, where Marcus stood leaning against the doorframe with a lit cigar in his hand.
