Dawn's first light filtered through the curtains as Tristan Ashcroft awoke.

Cold water droplets traced the sharp angles of his face in the bathroom mirror.

His white robe hung loosely, revealing a sculpted chest beneath.

In the living room, he dialed Ryan Casstevensa's number.

"Did you find them?"

"Boss, Sophia and the others are already at the ranch."

Tristan ended the call, his black dress shirt accentuating his broad shoulders and narrow waist.

Butler Raymond approached with a coffee tray. "Young master, breakfast is—"

"Not needed."

The black Bugatti sliced through the morning light like a blade.

Deseret Ranch sprawled across the outskirts, purchased by Tristan for a staggering sum three years prior.

Tall walls shielded the property from prying eyes, creating an oasis of silence.

Gravel crunched beneath tires, startling sparrows pecking at the ground.

By the wooden cabin, Ryan trimmed roses with a cigarette dangling from his lips.

"Boss."

The interior fell silent as men snapped to attention.

Tristan's gaze swept across them. "Lead the way."

Behind the chicken coop, a hidden cellar door exhaled damp mildew into the morning air.

In the dim glow, Sophia Merouin shivered in a bound chair.

"Boss!" Her voice cracked. "I can explain—"

Tristan seized her chin. "Using my money to fund your lover?"

Kevin Heilbronn struggled against his restraints until Xavier Lefèvre's boot sent him sprawling.

"How long did you think you could hide Byron's involvement?"

Sophia's nails bit into her palms, her face bloodless.

Releasing her, Tristan methodically wiped his fingers with a handkerchief.

"I despise betrayal." His eyes glinted like frost in moonlight as he turned. "Especially from greedy little vipers."

The cellar door slammed shut, swallowing Sophia's sobs.