The Heiress He Underestimated novel Chapter 57

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Chapter 57 A Walk Between Storms (2)

“The principal threat profile remains Valdris,” Frost said, his eyes flat. “He is impulsive, emotionally invested, and has significant resources. He will know about the event. It’s high–profile. The challenge is whether he would attempt anything in such a public setting.”

“He won’t.” Drakonius said, his voice certain. “He’s a bully. Bullies prefer shadows and helpless targets. A crowded room of powerful people is not his arena. The risk is before or after. The journey.

“Agreed,” Frost said. “The route is variable. We will not finalize it until one hour before departure. Randomization is our friend.”

Elera listened, absorbing the details. It felt surreal. She was planning a covert operation to attend her own award ceremony. She was the principal she was protecting.

“One more thing,” Frost said, tapping the screen to bring up a social calendar. “The night before the gala, there is a smaller, invitation–only patron’s dinner at the hotel. For major donors. It would be a lower- pressure environment to… acclimate. Fewer people, more controlled. I would recommend attending. It makes your appearance at the main gala the following night less of a singular event, less of a target.”

Drakonius looked at Elera. “What do you think? A test run?”

Her stomach tightened. Two nights in the city. Two nights out of the safety of the cliff. But Frost’s logic was sound. And part of her, the part that was Raven, was itching to step into that world, even for a moment, to feel the buzz of a room where stories were currency.

“Alright,” she said. “The dinner too.”

Frost gave a curt nod. “I’ll adjust the plans.” He left as silently as he had arrived.

In the sudden quiet of the room, with the rain pattering against the glass, Elera became acutely aware of Drakonius’s presence beside her. He was looking at the map of the hotel, his expression unreadable.