The Slumdog Billionaire

113. I’m Not Afraid !

Henry’s fingers lingered on the gold bar, the cold metal sending a shiver up his arm. He wasn’t sure if it was the chill of the gold or the heat of Léa’s gaze that had his pulse racing. His jaw tightened, his breathing steadying as he leaned back into the plush seat. The hum of the jet’s engines reverberated beneath him, a steady reminder of how high the stakes had suddenly risen.

“So, Henry,” Léa began, her voice smooth and teasing. She placed the gold bar down, letting it hit the table with a muted thud. “Tell me, what exactly are you afraid of?”

“I’m not afraid,” he said firmly, his tone sharper than he intended.

Her lips curled into a dangerous smile. “Then why the hesitation? A man like you should know when to act. Or are you second-guessing yourself?”

His fists clenched at his sides, his nails biting into his palms. She was baiting him, digging into his pride, and it was working. “Léa, don’t confuse caution with weakness,” he replied, his voice low, almost a growl.

“Oh, please,”