Midnight embers

polished facade. Sophia sensed danger surrounding him, the whispers of his ruthless business dealings. One fateful night, Sophia stumbled upon a cryptic message on Julian's phone. "W

e's no going back." Sophia steeled herself. "I'm ready." Julian's voice dropped to a whisper. "My family's involved in... unsavory business." Sophia's heart sank. "What kind of business?" Julian's gaze evaded hers. "Things I'd rather not discuss." Sophia's mind reeled. Was Julian involved in organized crime? Or something worse? The shadows surrounding Julian deepened. Sophia's doubts grew. Was she in grave danger? Or was Julian genuinely trying to protect her?