The Billionaire's Hidden Debt

The rain was blurring the windows of the Vane Corporation skyscraper, but inside, everything was sharp and cold. I gripped my father’s gambling records so hard my knuckles turned white. I didn't belong here in a place that smelled like expensive cologne and power. "He’s ready for you, Ms. Ava," a robotic-voiced secretary said, pointing toward the heavy oak doors. My heart hammered against my ribs. Silas Vane was known as 'The Vulture.' He didn't help people; he picked them apart. But I had no choice. My father’s life was on the line for a debt we couldn't pay. I pushed the doors open. The office was massive, but the man sitting behind the desk was even more intimidating. He didn't look up from his papers. His dark hair was perfectly styled, and his suit probably cost more than my entire apartment. "I don't have all day, Ava," he said, his voice a deep, dangerous rumble that made my skin prickle. "Do you have the money, or are we going to discuss my... alternative offer?" I swallowed hard. "I don't have the money, Silas." Finally, he looked up. His eyes were like ice, trapping me where I stood. "Good," he smirked. "I was hoping you'd say that."