Ava's fingers were still hovering over the data in her vision when—
A sharp knock echoed through the room.
Her head snapped up.
She wasn't expecting anyone.
Lucas was gone. William was on his own errands.
That meant whoever was at the door wasn't here for her.
Ava stood slowly, rolling her shoulders, pushing the system scan to the back of her mind.
Another knock.
Steady. Patient.
Ava exhaled sharply. She had to be careful.
She stepped toward the door, pressing her ear against the cold metal.
Then—a voice.
"Delivery for Bai."
Ava's jaw tightened.
She had met this courier a few times before—one of the lower-tier traders Lucas used to handle regular supply shipments.
Not a threat.
But that didn't mean he couldn't become one.
Ava's fingers twitched, adjusting her stance.
She half-opened the door—just enough to see the figure outside, just enough to reach for a knife if needed.
