"Zale, is that really you?" Maya stammered, a mixture of surprise and recognition coloring her words.Remaining composed, Zale acknowledged the revelation with a calm demeanor. "Indeed, Maya, it's me. I wasn't aware you were the potential business partner my associates mentioned. I serve as the CEO of Adair business, and it's a formal introduction." He emphasized the last word significantly.Maya's eyes widened in disbelief. "Adair business? You're involved in underworld dealings?"Zale nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yes, Maya. The business Ace was referring to – it's mine. I happen to be Oracle's grandson."Although Zale wished to keep his identity secret, especially from the people in the underworld, he found it difficult to deceive Maya.Moreover, attempting to lie to her after she had witnessed him there would be futile. He realized that any attempt to deny his identity as the Adair business CEO would only sow seeds of doubt in their friendship.Maya's shock turned into a mixture of

As Maya traversed the city streets on her way home that night, the revelations from her meeting with Zale echoed in her thoughts. The sleek black Lamborghini, the air of authority that surrounded Zale, and the unexpected disclosure of his involvement in the underworld business lingered in her mind, casting a shadow over her perception of him."Zale, involved in the underworld? Grandson of a veteran gun dealer?" she muttered to herself in disbelief.The gravity of this revelation caught her off guard, adding a layer of complexity to the emotions swirling within her. The very idea of an alliance with someone from a family that had long been rivals with hers created a tumultuous mix of feelings within Maya.Her heart, influenced by Zale's charisma and their shared history, inclined towards agreement. Yet, her rational mind warned against it, reminding her of the historical enmity between their families.As Maya reached her home, the familiar facade couldn't shield her from the internal

Luca, still shaken but driven by the desperate need to protect his daughter, lowered his head in a bow as he knelt before Zale. The weight of his responsibilities pressed upon him, evident in the lines etched on his forehead."Please don't harm my daughter; I will do anything you want," Luca pleaded, his voice laced with a mix of fear and determination, head bowed in submission.Zale, reveling in his apparent victory, chuckled with a hint of satisfaction. "I never said I would harm your daughter. Please stand. I don't want people to think I'm intimidating you."Luca, his mind clouded with worry for his child, rose to his feet obediently. The eyes that once held authority now mirrored vulnerability."I don't care about any mockery you throw my way. My daughter is everything to me, and I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe. I will do anything you want, but just don't harm her," Luca confessed, the sincerity in his words cutting through the tension in the room.Zale, unmoved by Luca'

The grandeur of Maya's mansion enveloped Zale and Leia as they stepped through its majestic entrance. Crystal chandeliers cast a gentle glow over meticulously chosen furnishings, and the opulence of the surroundings spoke volumes about Maya's wealth and taste. The head of security, a silent escort through the corridors of luxury, led them toward the heart of the mansion.As they walked through the grand hallway, its polished marble floors reflecting their every step, Leia couldn't help but marvel at the sheer splendor that surrounded them. The walls adorned with expensive artwork whispered tales of a life steeped in extravagance.Finally, they arrived at the seating room where Maya awaited, perched regally on a plush sofa. Her initial delight at Zale's presence dimmed slightly upon noticing Leia accompanying him. In the momentary pause before their greetings, Maya's mind raced with unspoken questions about the relationship between Zale and Leia.The first thought that came to her

The sudden blockade caught Zale and Leia off guard, the abrupt halt turning into a claustrophobic confrontation. In no time, four cars had strategically surrounded them, forming an impenetrable barrier around the truck. Leia, still recovering from the initial shock, remained oblivious to the encircling threat.As the tension escalated, Zale's instincts kicked in. His gaze darted between the menacing cars, recognizing the danger they posed. "Are you alright, sir?" Ace inquired from the other end of the line, his voice laden with anxiety and concern. He had heard the screams, therefore he was worried.Zale had already forgotten he was in a phone before that happened, but upon hearing Ace's voice, he put the phone back to his ear.His tone was calm and collected as he replied, "It's nothing serious, we're fine. Let's continue the conversation when I get back."With that, he ended the call straight away, not waiting for any other response from Ace.He turned to Leia, urgency etched acro