Chapter 20: EMILY’S DECISION

I stood outside the restaurant, staring at the entrance, my reflection flickering in the glass. The words Daniel had spoken the night before still echoed in my mind. "You don't have much time, Emily. Make your decision wisely." My stomach churned at the thought of what tonight might bring. This wasn't just a business dinner; it was something far more dangerous. But I needed answers, and Daniel was the only one who could provide them—if I could sift through the layers of manipulation he always cloaked himself in.

My phone buzzed in my hand, breaking through my thoughts. It was Sam. His text was short, his concern palpable: Are you really doing this?*

I typed back quickly. I have to. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Sam didn’t respond right away, but I could imagine his furrowed brow and the way his jaw would tighten whenever Daniel’s name was mentioned. He didn’t trust him, and honestly, neither did I. But I couldn't keep running away from the man who seemed to be controlling my life fro