“It’s an honor to finally meet you in person.” Christopher spoke these words the moment they were seated—not as the opening of some formal discourse, but as the simple articulation of an undeniable truth. “Your name has been whispered in certain circles for years now. I’ve truly longed to see you face-to-face.”
Elena’s expression turned serious for a moment, and she asked with firm directness: “How did you find me?”
Christopher offered a smile brimming with quiet confidence. “It wasn’t all that difficult, believe me. But what truly captivated me—what drew me in—was not merely your particular set of skills. It was your red lines. And, of course, the many projects I sent your way that you turned down.”
Elena leaned back into her chair, a flicker of surprise crossing her features. The silk of her gown rippled with the gentle movement, sending waves of light gliding across its surface. “Red lines?”
“Yes. The specific targets you agreed to take on—and those you refused.” Christopher’s gray eyes locked onto her blue ones, unblinking. “I keep track of most contracts—their acceptance or rejection. It’s rare to encounter someone like you. Most of us—or rather, most of the people I know—draw no distinction between a black target and a white one. It’s money that paints the color.”
Just then, Victor returned with the tray of drinks. The champagne glowed in its tall, slender flute, tiny bubbles leaping like miniature stars from the crystal depths to the surface. Christopher’s whisky, with its deep amber hue, cast a spectrum of smoky gold as it caught the light. He swirled the glass, and a thick, viscous trail clung to the crystal walls.
Elena lifted her flute and took a small sip. The fruity, delicate taste of the champagne—interwoven with hints of strawberry and citrus—spread across her tongue. She paused for a moment, watching the dance of bubbles in the crystalline glass, then, without breaking her gaze from Christopher, asked: “And you? Where do you place yourself on that spectrum?”
Christopher smiled—this time, warmer. “I’m merely the owner of a beautiful hotel with its own particular rules. This place is the sanctuary and protector of our family. Here, we do not spill blood, and we safeguard our guests. That is the one law that everyone—without exception—must abide by. Our purpose is simply to nurture and preserve talent.”