Chapter One Hundred And Eleven

Shock, curiosity, and concern were visible in his expression. The warmth in his eyes dimmed momentarily, replaced by a furrowed brow as he processed the unexpected revelation. His grip on my hand tightened slightly. After a thoughtful pause, he finally spoke, his voice measured but filled with empathy.

"Harper, I'm sorry that you're going through such a difficult situation, and it must be hard for your dad as well," he said.

A tender moment passed as he leaned across the table, his thumb brushing gently against the back of my hand. His words jolted me back from my thoughts, and I listened intently as he revealed, "You know, I investigated your dad's company when we agreed to, and I discovered some shady dealings that I can't go deep into. This concerns both families, and I'll stop at nothing to bring light to the issue at hand."

His gaze bore into my eyes, and he voiced with vulnerability, "I hope that doesn't stop what we have going on because I can't afford to lose you for any reaso