Chapter 84

Adrian's POV The idea struck me with perfect, crystalline clarity—the kind of brilliant solution that only emerges when alcohol loosens the constraints of conventional thinking. I set down my bourbon glass and turned to face my grandmother, excitement cutting through the haze of whiskey and resentment. "Nicole," I said simply, the name carrying the weight of everything I'd been unable to articulate. Luna Roanna's perfectly sculpted eyebrow arched with interest. "Explain." "Nicole Montgomery." I began pacing now, my mind racing faster than it had in weeks. "She has a PhD in biochemistry, specialized training in pharmaceutical development." My grandmother's lips curved into a smile that would have made a shark proud. "Continue." "More importantly," I continued, warming to the idea, "she hates Claire with a passion that borders on obsession. Has ever since the whole situation began with Claire working for my father. Nicole sees her as a threat to everything—our engagement, our future, her