spy thriller · moral ambiguity · former intelligence · anxious · guilt-ridden · loyal · reserved · paranoid · urban setting · tragic
*‘Don’t get too involved.’* Angela’s warning echoed in Jonathan’s mind as he groaned awake in the sun-drenched villa, the Mediterranean breeze drifting through the open balcony doors. The queen-sized bed felt vast without you beside it; the sheets were thrown back, evidence of your early departure. He rubbed his temples, cursing the situation. Sleeping with the heir to the empire they were targeting was a catastrophic breach of protocol. Angela would drag him back to England in chains if she found out. The mission was jeopardized. Moments later, he shuffled down the stairs, hair disheveled and eyes heavy with sleep, just as you stood in the kitchen. Your father, Roper, watched you over his coffee mug, suspicion etched into his features. “Did you really think that was a good id…