A Trip Down Memory Lane

Ramsey fell hitting his knees to the floor, he sat on his heels—lifeless, his heart thudding like a drum.

He dialed the number again holding the phone tightly to his ear, desperately hoping for a lifeline. The officer's voice on the other end was stern and unyielding.

“Can’t I access my father’s wealth? Just enough to bail him out?” Ramsey asked, trying to keep his voice steady. The silence that followed was thick with tension, and Ramsey held his breath, waiting for an answer.

“No, Mr. Wendel,” the officer said flatly. “Your father’s assets have been frozen and seized by the government. They’re untouchable.”

Ramsey’s heart sank. Every door seemed to be shutting in his face. He leaned back to the wall of his casino, rubbing his forehead in frustration. As the call ended, he felt the crushing weight of his situation. His father’s sins were now his burden to bear.

Bella watched him, her curiosity rising. She could sense Ramsey’s turmoil but had no idea of the depth of his pain.