Chapter 35 : “Need a ride?”

*Aaron’s POV*

I sat in my car across the street from the dimly lit venue. It was the kind of place where secrets were traded like currency, and tonight, I was investing heavily. I ran a hand through my hair, feeling the familiar itch of impatience.

"Are we clear on what you're doing?" I asked the figure lounging in the passenger seat beside me. The man was nondescript, his face forgettable—a perfect shadow to slip through the crowd unnoticed.

"Crystal," he replied, his voice low and even. "Follow the girl, get you the information. You'll know who she's with, where she goes."

"Especially tonight," I growled, the tightness in my chest constricting further at the thought of her with him—Michael.

"Jealous?" He smirked, and I shot him a look that could freeze hell over.

"Get it done," I snapped, tossing him a wad of cash. He caught it deftly and stepped out of the vehicle without another word.

Left alone, I leaned back against the leather seat, my mind racing with images of Roanne—