Chapter 51

The rain came down in sheets, hammering against the rooftop of the abandoned industrial complex where Erica and Julian had arrived. The plan was simple—meet one of her father’s old contacts, someone who could provide vital information about the vault. But with the storm raging outside and the constant threat of Ophelia’s agents closing in, there was nothing simple about the situation.

Erica tugged the hood of her jacket tighter, the fabric clinging to her skin from the moisture in the air. Julian stood beside her, scanning the dark, empty surroundings with a level of wariness that had become second nature. The rain didn't seem to faze him; he was focused, calm. But his eyes darted from shadow to shadow, watching for any signs of trouble.

The storm matched Erica’s mood—unsettled, unpredictable. There was an edge of frustration bubbling up inside her. The closer they got to the vault, the more obstacles seemed to stand in their way. And while the answers she sought were just out of reac