Chapter 48

• ALEXANDER
• I arrived at the office early, hoping the demands of the day would drown out the chaos in my mind. Restless sleep had left me raw, my thoughts an endless loop of regret and frustration. Today, I needed focus—something to anchor me before I spiraled any further.
• As I stepped into my office, my eyes were immediately drawn to an envelope resting on my desk. Its stark presence sent a chill through me. Frowning, I grabbed it, dropped heavily into my chair, and tore it open, bracing myself for what might be inside.