Chapter 21: The Price ofDante's smile lingered, but it wasn't one of amusement. It was the kind of smile that carried weight, the kind that made men question whether they'd just won or walked into a trap. Caleb forced himself to hold Dante's gaze, keeping his expression neutral. The moment stretched, the air between them thick with the kind of tension that only existed when power and survival were on the table. Finally, Dante leaned forward, clasping his hands together. "You always were quick on your feet, Caleb." Caleb didn't respond. He knew better than to assume that was a compliment. Dante exhaled through his nose, almost like a sigh, and tapped the side of the ledger. "It's a solid lead. Clean. Almost too clean." Caleb's stomach tightened, but he kept his face impassive. "You asked for an answer. That's what the data says." Dante tilted his head slightly, considering him. "And you trust it?" Caleb met his gaze. "It's what I'd follow if I were you." Dante studied him for another beat, then set the ledger down with a quiet thud. "Then I guess we'll see if it leads anywhere." He leaned back, stretching one arm along the booth. "You did well bringing this to me first." The words were smooth, but Caleb knew what they meant. He'd passed a test. For now. Dante's gaze sharpened. "That said, I don't like surprises, Caleb. And this situation smells like one waiting to happen." Caleb kept his expression still. "I don't like them either." Dante's smile returned, thin and knowing. "Then let's hope this is the last one." He gestured toward the club floor. "Go. Enjoy yourself. You've earned a drink." It wasn't a suggestion. Caleb nodded once, then stood. His muscles felt coiled, ready to spring. He knew this wasn't over. As he stepped away from the table, Dante's voice stopped him. "Oh, and Caleb?" He turned back. Dante's expression was unreadable. "If this lead turns out to be false, you won't have time to explain." Caleb nodded again, then walked away, the weight of his lie pressing heavier than ever.