"Worth it?" Elias asked from the helm.Julian watched the sun hit the water, finally understanding that he hadn't bought a boat—he’d bought the ability to disappear.

Julian showed Elias a listing for a $10 million vessel. "I can swing this," Julian said.Elias laughed. "The '10% Rule,' Julian. Every year, you will spend 10% of the purchase price just to keep her from sinking or rusting. Crew, dockage, fuel, and insurance. If the boat is $10M, you’re writing a $1M check every year just to stand still." Chapter 3: The Secret Weapon (The Broker)

Months later, Julian stood on the flybridge of his own vessel, the Digital Nomad . As they cleared the breakwater, the roar of the city faded into the rhythm of the waves.