Victoria sat at the edge of the bed, staring at her phone in disbelief. The call she had just received was the last thing she had expected.
The phone buzzed again in her hand, signaling the incoming call. With a deep breath, she swiped to answer, hoping it was not Dorian Blackwood.
“Hello?”
"Victoria Hale," came a clear, poised voice on the other end. "This is Isabella Lancastriel."
Victoria swallowed, suddenly aware of the weight this conversation carried. "Yes, I— I’m here. To what do I owe this call, Miss Lancastriel?"
Isabella’s tone remained calm. "Let’s skip the formalities, Victoria. Heinrich, my father, has sent me to discuss potential business opportunities. He has reason to believe you’re in need of a solid financial backer, especially considering your… recent circumstance
