Chapter 320

Author's POV The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the opulent dining area of the Dynasty Hotel as David Anderson and his wife Sophie arrived right on the dot at two o'clock. The restaurant, with its crystal chandeliers and white linen tablecloths, seemed to perfectly frame the power play about to unfold. David kept checking his watch nervously as they sat at the reserved table. Ten minutes passed. Fifteen. Twenty. Sophie kept her game face on, but the slight tapping of her manicured fingernails against her water glass gave away her nerves. "He's playing mind games with us," David muttered, adjusting his Italian silk tie. When Ryan Blackwood finally appeared at the entrance, the entire restaurant seemed to hold its breath. Conversations dimmed. Waiters straightened their posture. He moved like a predator who owned the place, his tailored charcoal suit emphasizing his commanding presence. Sophie's breath hitched in her throat. Her eyes locked onto him with laser intensity. Ryan sti