Back in the car, silence returned.
But it felt different now.
Heavier.
Charged.
"You crossed the line," Alexander said.
Emily looked at him.
"I thought that was the point."
His eyes darkened.
"This is still a contract."
Emily leaned closer.
Close enough to feel his breath.
"Then why," she whispered,
"do you sound jealous?"
For a moment—
He didn't answer.
Then—
He smiled.
Slow.
Dangerous.
"Careful, Emily."
His voice dropped.
"This game… isn't as simple as you think."
She smiled back.
"Good."
Because she wasn't playing to be safe.
She was playing—
To win.