The café Alexa chose was tucked behind an art gallery in the quieter part of town. There would be zero chances of cameras. No chatter. Just exposed brick walls, a single barista, and trendy music that made her eyes roll from the absurdity of the lyrics. She arrived early and took the seat with her back to the wall, surveying the room.
Callum arrived a minute past the hour, dressed in a dark cashmere jacket and jeans. Casual, but deliberate. Controlled. He walked like a man who didn't mind being seen but only when he chose to be. On his terms.
Alexa didn't offer to shake his hand. "You're punctual."
Callum slid into the seat across from her, unbothered. "I didn't expect you to reach out so soon and that's made me curious. Curiosity keeps me on time."
She studied him for a beat. "I've seen your name linked with rather... unflattering actions."
That hint let him know that she had looked into him without giving too much away.
