The question was casual. Almost conversational. But I heard the steel underneath. Adrian didn't do favours. He made investments that paid returns.
Cal had expected this. “Protection. If this works, you have documented evidence of corruption happening on your property. Evidence you had no knowledge of. Evidence that makes you appear cooperative with any investigation that follows.”
“And if it doesn't work?”
“Then you have leverage on a Crown prosecutor. Either way, you benefit.”
“Leverage implies I'm holding something over him. That suggests involvement.”
“Leverage implies you know something useful.” Cal's voice stayed steady. “How you obtained that knowledge is immaterial. And if pressed, you can always claim you were investigating suspicious activity at your own club.”
Adrian's mouth curved slightly. “You've thought this through.”
“I've been thinking about it.”
Adrian looked at me. “Your thoughts?”
“I think it's reckless,” I said honestly. “I think using Eden puts your entire operation at risk. I think trying to trap corrupt prosecutors in a BDSM club is exactly the kind of plan that sounds brilliant until it goes catastrophically wrong.”
“But?” Adrian prompted.
“But Cal's right about the window. And if we don't move soon, Harrow will disappear behind so many lawyers and sealed files we'll never touch him.” I met Cal's gaze. “I'm in.”
“Even knowing the risks?”
“Especially knowing the risks. My sister's dead because people like Harrow operate without consequences. If this is what it takes to change that, I'll do it.”
Adrian was silent for another long moment. Then he nodded. “Very well. You have access to Eden. But understand: if this compromises my operation in any way, the consequences fall on both of you.”
“Understood,” Cal said.
“And you'll need participants. A believable scene requires more than just the two of you. I can provide people. Experienced. Discreet. Trustworthy.”
“That would be helpful.” Cal's shoulders relaxed fractionally. “When can we move?”
“A couple of days. That gives us time to prepare properly. To ensure security is in place. To brief everyone involved.” Adrian stood. “Mr Mercer, you'll coordinate with Noah on technical requirements. Cameras, audio, whatever you need. Dom, you'll work with our scene coordinators to ensure the scenario appears authentic.”
Cal shifted his weight. The nerves flickered again, just for a second. “Before Eden. There's a witness. Someone who might have information about who Harrow was protecting in Lily's case.”
My head turned sharply. “Who?”
“Someone who worked in the courthouse the night the evidence was sealed. Someone who saw things they weren't supposed to see.” Cal's jaw tightened. “They agreed to meet. Tonight. But they're nervous. Compromised. This might be our only chance.”
“Where?” I demanded.
“Courthouse service tunnels. Access point near the old archives.” Cal looked at Adrian. “We need to go now. Before they change their mind or Harrow gets to them first.”
“Why didn't you mention this before?” I kept my voice level, but barely.
“Because I wasn't sure they'd actually show.” Cal's eyes met mine. “And because I knew you'd insist on coming, which means more risk, more exposure. But after tonight—after Harrow made me at the gala—I don't have the luxury of working alone anymore.”
Adrian studied us both for a moment. “Go. But be careful. If Harrow's already moving against you, he'll have people watching.”
“Understood.” Cal was already moving toward the door.
I followed. “You better not have been planning to do this without me.”
“The thought crossed my mind.” He didn't look back. “Multiple times.”
