Chapter 171

Author's POV While Serena and Ryan's relationship continued to deteriorate, across town, a different kind of power play was unfolding. Lucian West and Kane Blackwood met in a private dining room at Noir, one of Manhattan's most exclusive restaurants known for its impeccable discretion. Kane lifted his crystal glass of aged whiskey, studying the man across the table with calculated interest. His smile didn't reach his eyes. "The famous Lucian West. I've heard so much about you," Kane said, his voice smooth as silk but sharp as a blade. "Your reputation precedes you." Lucian barely acknowledged the compliment with a slight quirk of his lips, clearly not interested in meaningless pleasantries. "Let's cut to the chase. I invited you here to discuss a business proposition," Lucian said, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. Kane's eyebrow arched with interest. "Business? Surely you're aware that I'm not exactly in the driver's seat at Blackwood. My dear nephew has made sure I'm just the f