Chapter 8 - The Encounter in Zurich
The Grand Hotel Dolder in Zurich was a palace of luxury, overlooking the snow-capped Alps and Lake Zurich. Security was tight, packed with private guards protecting world leaders and tech billionaires.
Preston had spent his last credit card limit on a one-way ticket to Switzerland and a forged press credential. He stood near the back of the grand ballroom, his heart hammering against his ribs like a trapped bird.
And then, he saw her.
Lena walked into the ballroom surrounded by an entourage of executives, security personnel, and international reporters. She wore a deep navy evening gown, looking regal, serene, and entirely out of his reach.
Preston’s breath caught in his throat. For eleven years, he had taken her for granted. He had viewed her quiet dignity as weakness, her devotion as boring. He had treated her like a background character in his life while he chased cheap thrills and corporate vanity. Now, seeing her in her true element, he realized with staggering clarity that she had always been out of his league.
"Lena!" he shouted, breaking past a velvet rope. "Lena!"
Security guards instantly moved to block him, but Lena paused. She turned her head, her calm gaze sweeping over the crowd until her eyes fell upon him.
For a moment, time stopped.
Preston looked disheveled, thin, and desperate. Lena looked him up and down without a single flicker of anger, surprise, or pity.
May you like
She raised a single hand, signaling to her security guards. "Let him step closer," she instructed softly in English.
The guards stepped aside. Preston stumbled forward, almost collapsing at her feet.
