Chapter 25
A Line in the Sand
Theme: Loyalty vs. Ambition
The Proposal
A smirk tugged at the edges of Jonathan's lips as he sat back in his chair. His sharp features were made even more threatening by the eerie glare from the golden chandelier above them.
He swirled his wine and murmured, "Join me, Adrian," with ease. "And I'll make you more powerful than you ever imagined."
Adrian did not recoil. He tightened his hold on the table's edge. "I don’t need you to build my empire."
Jonathan chuckled softly. "You think your power means something?" He put his glass down with a gentle clink and shook his head. "You're playing a child's game compared to what I offer."
Adrian's anger blazed in his eyes. "I built all that I own. Not with you. Without your blood money.
Jonathan let out a sig
