Two hours later, the Blackstone team left with revised documents and grateful handshakes.
“Exceptional work, Ms. Feng.” Grimm stood. “Victor chose well.”
Victor said nothing. Just inclined his head.
The other partners filed out. Lilith remained seated, studying her phone with theatrical disinterest.
“I have concerns,” she said without looking up.
Grimm paused at the door. “Regarding?”
“Their arrangement.” Now she looked up. Her eyes found Ava’s. “I’ve been watching them all morning. The careful distance. The way she stiffens when he touches her.”
“We’re at work…”
“A newly claimed human should crave her demon’s touch.” Lilith stood, smoothing her dress. “It’s biological. The mark creates a bond that manifests as physical need. Compulsion.” She tilted her head, studying Ava. “Yet Ms. Feng maintains perfect professional distance. Either she has extraordinary self-control for a mortal, or there’s no real bond to control.”
Ava’s mouth went dry. She hadn’t known that. About the compulsion.
“Victor hasn’t claimed anyone in over a century.” Lilith circled the table slowly. “And now, suddenly, a first-year associate who happens to need protection from her own indiscretion?”
How did she know about… ?
“Convenient timing.” Lilith stopped behind Ava’s chair. Close enough to touch. “Almost manufactured.”
Victor stepped forward. “You’re questioning my claim.”
“I’m questioning its authenticity.”
“Then you question me.”
“Perhaps I do.” She didn’t flinch. Didn’t look away. “You’ve been behaving strangely since she arrived. Distracted. Protective. Almost emotional.” The word dripped contempt. “Either she’s done something remarkable to you, or you’re both hiding something. I intend to find out which.”
“We’re done here, Lilith.”
“Are we?” She collected her bag. Unhurried. “I’ll be watching. Both of you. And when you slip, and you will slip, I’ll be there.”
She walked to the door. Paused.
“Do try to look more in love. For both your sakes.”
She left.
Grimm studied them for a long moment. “Is there anything you need to tell me?”
“No,” Victor said.
“The claim stands,” Ava added. “Whatever Lilith thinks she sees.”
Grimm nodded once and followed the others out.
The door clicked shut.
“That was close,” Ava said.
“Too close.” Victor’s expression was unreadable. “She’s not going to stop.”
“Then we stop giving her ammunition.” Ava met his eyes. “The distance isn’t working. She sees through it.”
