CHAPTER THREE

In the stillness of the moonlit night, Felicia stomach grumbled and protested at her hunger protest. She looked at the empty bags of junks wistfully wishing she hadn't consumed it all two days ago. She wanted to continue but her stomach kept panging, she couldn't bear the hunger any longer. she devised a plan to sneak out of her room. She padded softly across the plush carpet of the hallway, her nimble footsteps creating barely a whisper, Each movement was executed with ninja-like precision.

With every silent step, she edged closer to the staircase, the soft glow of the moonlight illuminating her path. The dimly lit corridor felt like a labyrinth, and Felicia's senses were heightened as she moved like a ghost, her very existence hidden in the shadows.

Reaching the top of the staircase, her heart quickened. She could hear the gentle hum of the night outside, contrasting with the oppressive silence of the house. But as she descended, the old wooden steps seemed to conspire against her. The aged wood groaned under her weight, their telltale creaks piercing the silence like a discordant note in harmony.

With every creak, Felicia winced, her breath held in anticipation of the sound waking the entire household.

Finally, at the bottom of the stairs, she found herself in the living room. The room was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow from the nightlight, casting long shadows on the familiar furniture. 

She sighed in relief as she had made it downstairs without alerting anyone. She turned to head further into the kitchen on her tippy toes, her steps now stealthy like an assassin. She paused suddenly noticing a familiar silhouette. And there, in the heart of the room, sat her father, Sir Charles. He occupied one of the kitchen chairs, a cup in hand, pinching his forehead like he was lost in thought.

With tentative determination, she started to tiptoe back like a cat toward the staircase, first step, second step , third step......her father's voice, low called out to her and stopped her in her tracks.

"Felicia," he said, "come, sit with me for a moment."

Her reluctance was apparent, she could run up the staircase and go back to her room to avoid him. but ultimately, she agreed, dragging herself into the chair across from her father. She reached for a banana from the fruit bowl, peeling it open her appetite somehow returning in the midst of everything.

Sir Charles cleared his throat, and his voice took on a somber tone as he began to speak. "Felicia, I need you to understand why this arranged marriage is so crucial. Our family's company is in dire straits. We're on the verge of bankruptcy, and the union with Raphael Gallagher is our lifeline."

Felicia's gaze remained fixed on her father, her eyes wide with a mix of surprise and concern. She knew the company was facing some sort of blacklash ever since her father started traveling more but she had never known the extent of their financial struggles. 

"Father, why didn't you tell me before? I had no idea..."She whispered.

Sir Charles lowered his head, his hand trembling as he reached for his cup. "I didn't want to burden you, my dear," he admitted, his voice choked with regret. "I wanted to protect you from the weight of our struggles, but I can no longer bear it alone."

Felicia's heart ached for her father as she watched him, the man who had always been her protector, now vulnerable and desperate. She took a deep breath and asked, "What can we do, Father? Is there any way out of this situation?"

Her father looked up, his eyes filled with hope and sadness. "We could cancel the wedding if you insist," he replied, "but we would have to face the consequences.

Specifically, in our case, we' could consider a Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This means we'll aim to reorganize the company while continuing to operate. The goal is to pay off our debts and emerge as a healthier, more efficient organization.

Sir Charles leaned forward, "During Chapter 11, we'll work closely with the court and a team of experts to develop a plan. This plan may involve selling assets, renegotiating contracts, and even laying off employees to reduce costs. It's a challenging time, and it will impact everyone involved, including our employees and shareholders."

She nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "What about the debts the company owes?"

Her father explained, "The court will oversee the restructuring of our debts. Some creditors may receive only a portion of what's owed, and others might get priority treatment, like secured debts. It's a complex process, and not all debts may be fully repaid."

Felicia asked the critical question, "Is there a chance for the company to recover from this?"

Her father smiled with a touch of pessimism, "no, there is no chance we're neck deep in debt to Steeletech Tower, multiple banks, and even to McDonald's. After settling these debts, we will have nothing left, not even this house."

The weight of the choice hung heavily in the air. Tears streamed down Felicia's cheeks, and she could see her father's eyes glistening with unshed tears as well. 

With resolute determination, Felicia wiped away her tears and looked at her father. "Really, Dad? Emotional blackmail?" she teased, her voice holding a mix of exasperation and affection.

Her father met her teasing with mock surprise, a hint of relief in his voice. "Blackmail my stubborn-headed daughter? Impossible," he replied, a small smile forming on his lips.

Felicia smiled back at him, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. She knew that while their challenges were daunting, her father intentions towards her was pure.

 "The least I can do to repay you for all the years you've taken care of me is to save your legacy, Father. We'll find a way to make this work, and I won't let our family fall apart, I'll Marry him. "She finally agreed, her voice filled with determination.