We reopened cases he had quietly supported.
We paid debts no one else thought mattered.
People noticed.
And for once… they weren’t whispering.
But peace never lasts long in families built on money.
It started with a phone call.
Unknown number.
I almost ignored it.
Almost.
“Layla.”
I froze.
I knew that voice.
Daniel.
“I was wondering when you’d finally pick up,” he said, smooth as ever.
“I thought power might make you too busy for old family.”
“You’re not family,” I replied coldly.
A soft chuckle. “Funny. Legally, I still am.”
I didn’t speak.
I let him talk.
People like Daniel always reveal themselves if you give them silence.
“I want a meeting,” he continued.
“Private. No lawyers.”
“No.”
“Careful,” he said lightly. “You don’t even know what I’m offering yet.”
“I know enough.”
A pause.
Then his tone shifted—less charming, more dangerous.
“You think you’ve won, Layla. But you’re sitting in a chair that was never meant for you.”
I looked around Rick’s office.
Then back at the window.
“It fits,” I said quietly.
He exhaled slowly.
“Meet me tomorrow.”
And then… he hung up.
I went anyway.
Not because I trusted him.
Because I didn’t.
The restaurant was empty when I arrived.
Daniel was already there, relaxed, like he owned the place.
Some people never change.
“You look comfortable,” he said, eyeing me as I sat down.
“I am.”
“That’s new.”
I didn’t smile.
“Say what you came to say.”
He leaned forward slightly.
“I can make this easier for you.”
“There it is,” I murmured.
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