Chapter 1 The proposal

**Lexi's Pov:**

The room was tense and heavy with fear. My heart raced as I faced Giovanni Santino, who sat back in my father's chair, looking disturbingly relaxed despite the death threat he had just made.

"I'm a patient man, Ms. Thompson," he said coolly. "But that patience won't last. Your father owes me twenty million dollars, and I'm here to collect."

I swallowed hard as my father sat in the corner, pale and empty, clutching a nearly empty glass of whiskey. Twenty million-how were we going to pay that? It all started with bad bets, but now it was life or death.

"Please," I urged, stepping to protect Kayla, who trembled behind me. "We just need a week. I'll find a way to get the money."

Santino raised an eyebrow, unimpressed, and signaled his intimidating man, who pointed a gun at Kayla.

"No!" I gasped, my heart racing. "She's got nothing to do with this!"

Kayla gripped my arm tightly, her fear mingling with mine in the confining room.

"Perhaps we should take your sister instead," Santino said as if he were discussing lunch options. "A warning to show we mean business."

I dropped to my knees. "Please. Just one week."

For a moment, silence stretched unbearably. Then, Santino let out a slow, amused chuckle.

"One week," he murmured. "Fail, and there won't be a second chance."

I quickly nodded, feeling relieved when Santino and his men left. The door clicked shut, and I sat down. My hands shook.

The next few hours clouded together. My father stayed quiet, drinking and drowning in guilt. Kayla hid in her room, too afraid to speak. I felt hopeless, unsure how we would escape this mess.

Finally, Kayla came out and spoke up. "Maybe we should go out for a bit. To clear our heads. We can talk to one of Dad's friends-Mr. Williams. He visits often and might help us get a loan or know someone who can."

At first, I didn't want to go to a party. I thought it was wrong when we were in so much trouble. But Kayla insisted, saying my dad's friend might give us a loan to help us out. I also didn't want to leave her with her worries, so I agreed.

We got dressed. Kayla wore a shiny silver dress, and I picked a more straightforward outfit. I was still worried about our debts and problems when we arrived at the party.

The estate was grand and filled with wealthy people I used to know. I felt out of place, hiding a secret I couldn't share.

The music was soft, and the low lights made it feel warm. I stood by the bar, sipping a drink I didn't taste, while Kayla talked to others. I promised to keep an eye on her and then take us both home.

Then I felt it-someone watching me.

I turned and saw him. He was across the room, tall and broad-shouldered, with a confidence that made everyone else fade into the background. His dark hair framed his strong face, and piercing eyes locked onto mine.

Then he started walking toward me.

"Would you like to dance?" His deep and smooth voice sent chills down my spine.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea," I said, feeling nervous. I was here to get help from a family friend. As I spoke, I found myself taking his hand.

Before I realized it, he led me to the dance floor. His hand rested on my waist, pulling me closer as the music changed to a slow, soft beat. His touch felt warm, and I started to relax as we swayed.

"You seem like you could use a distraction," he whispered, his breath warm against my ear. I wasn't sure how to reply. Something about him made me uneasy, but I couldn't ignore the attraction. His fingers moved in small circles on my back, sending shivers through me.

"Maybe," I whispered, feeling my heart race under his intense gaze. There was something about him-something that felt both exciting and dangerous.

Just as I started to get lost in the moment, my phone buzzed in my purse. I hesitated, then checked the screen.

I don't feel safe. Please come outside.

It was from Kayla.

Panic filled me. "I-I have to go," I stuttered, pulling away from the stranger. He looked confused, but I didn't wait for his reply. I had to find Kayla.

The man's grip tightened, just for a second. "Are you okay?"

I didn't answer.

I pushed through the crowd, feeling anxious as I rushed outside. The cool night air hit me, and I looked for Kayla.

"Kayla?" I called, my voice tight and worried. "Kayla!"

I took a few more steps toward the side of the house, my heart racing, and everything went dark.

A hard blow to my head knocked me to the ground. I tried to scream, but someone covered my mouth. My vision blurred, and strong arms dragged me into the shadows.

**After what seemed like some minutes later**

My body felt heavy, fading in and out of consciousness, but I caught the low murmur of voices.

I heard the slamming of a car door followed by the screech of tires as it sped away.

"She wasn't part of the plan," one man muttered.

"She is now," another replied coldly

Fear gripped me.

Where were they taking me?

And worse-who had just decided my fate?