That evening, Michael and i regrouped in their apartment. The day's progress had been significant, but the weight of what lay ahead loomed over them.
Isabella poured two glasses of wine and handed one to Michael as they settled on the couch. "Do you think they'll stand by us when it counts?" she asked, referring to the allies they had approached.
Michael took a sip, his expression thoughtful. "I think most of them will. But there's always a risk that someone will waver—or worse, leak the plan to Victor."
Isabella nodded, her gaze distant. "I keep thinking about Vanessa. She's backed into a corner, and people like her are dangerous when they're desperate."
Michael placed a reassuring hand on hers. "We'll keep an eye on her. But right now, our focus has to be on Victor. If we can take him down, Vanessa will be a footnote in this story."
