Chapter 22

Zayd Al-Mansoori placed the heavy, gold-embossed deed onto the mahogany side table, the movement deliberate and rhythmic. The silence in the room was absolute; even the air seemed to thin. "I'll leave the birthday present here then," Zayd said, his voice cutting through the tension with practiced ease. "I'll be going." Hana Al-Mansour did not speak. Her gaze was locked on the document, her fingers twitching at her sides. Zayd didn't wait for a farewell. He turned on his heel and strode...