Chapter 177

Leander’s stomach tightened, and his mind raced. So that’s why Parker called, he thought. Parker’s desperation and plea for money made the whole picture start to make sense. The man was trying to stay afloat, probably banking on another high-risk investment to recover.

Leander remained silent for a moment, careful not to let Eleanor see his reaction. He hadn’t told her about Parker’s call, and now it made perfect sense why the man had been so eager to accept the humiliating job offer.

“Parker, huh?” Leander said, his voice calm but thoughtful. “Well, I suppose even the mighty fall eventually.”

Eleanor smiled faintly, picking up her glass. “Yes, they do. But some of them never learn because of their greed.”

As Eleanor continued, Leander took another sip of his scotch. “You see, Mr. Parker’s situation is dire. He was relying on the funds from your black card, the one that went missing a while back. He thought he could cover the shortfall with bank loans, but when those failed, he ended