Elena refused to move.“I appreciate your hospitality,” she said evenly, “but I didn’t come here to become your guest.”Damien’s smile remained.“It wasn’t hospitality.”“It was an instruction.”The two guards standing at the door didn’t move, but their presence alone made the air feel heavier.Elena rose slowly from the chair.“If your answer is no, say no.”“I’ll leave.”“If it’s yes, we’ll discuss the terms.”“But you don’t get to imprison me.”Damien rested both hands on the desk.“You think this is about control.”“It isn’t.”“Then what is it?”“It’s about survival.”She frowned.“I drove here alone.”“No one followed me.”“You’ve underestimated your father.”The words struck harder than she expected.Damien walked toward a liquor cabinet, poured himself a glass of whiskey, and took a slow sip.“How long have you been planning this?”“Three years.”“And how many people know?”“No one.”“Not even your closest friend?”“I don’t have close friends.”He nodded, as though that answer
Last Updated : 2026-06-30 Read more