Chapter 17: A Dangerous Proposal

Scarlett sat on the edge of her bed, listening to the distant sounds of the city through her cracked window. Nathan had stepped out for a walk, needing to clear his mind after some disturbing threats from Victor. She understood why—her own head was spinning with confusing thoughts and unanswered questions.

Suddenly, her phone buzzed shattering the silence. The caller ID showed a blocked number, which got her worried. She hesitated but felt compelled to answer.

"Scarlett," Victor's cunning voice cut through the line, smooth and manipulative. "I hope you've had some time to think."

Scarlett gripped the phone more tightly. "Think about what? Your sudden return and showing up at the café uninvited?"

Victor gave a quiet laugh, "Oh, my dear, I never come uninvited. You know you need me."

"I don't need anything from you," Scarlett snapped, trying to sound calm despite her pounding heart. "Stay out of my life and Nathan's."