The dinner began quietly under dim candlelight. Rain tapped softly against the windows while jazz music played through hidden speakers in the living room. Marcus joked constantly, pretending to be charming, while Ethan barely spoke at all. Oliver looked tense from the moment they arrived.
Charlotte forced herself to smile while secretly checking the hidden camera feed on her phone beneath the table.
Then Marcus stood up.
“Tonight calls for something special,” he announced with a grin.
He walked into the kitchen carrying bottles and glasses while Ethan remained seated beside Oliver. Through the hidden camera audio, Charlotte heard Ethan speaking softly.
“You know the rules,” Ethan said calmly.
Oliver nodded immediately like a frightened child.
“Yes.”
“No hesitation tonight.”
“I understand.”
