65Leslie held her breath as she awaited Darius's reply, her heart in her throat. There was a long pause before he spoke, his voice hesitant."Leslie, of course you can stay with me," he said gently. "But I...I don't think my place is suitable. Let me see what I can arrange, okay?"Leslie's shoulder
66The next day, in Sanchez's company office, Darius sat across from Sanchez, their discussion taking place in the elegant surroundings of the spacious office. Sanchez, leaned forward, his eyes bright with anticipation."Listen, young Master," Sanchez began, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "There'
67Darius sighed inwardly. It seemed they wouldn't back down so easily. As much as he disliked the idea, confrontation would only make matters worse. He raised his hands slightly to show he meant no harm, then slowly opened the car door and stepped out."See, was that so hard?" said the first man wi
68Darius wasn't surprised to hear Nathan Lucre's name. He remembered their last encounter all too well. Nathan had threatened revenge after Darius foiled his plans by marrying Leslie. It seemed he was making good on that promise by sending these thugs. Still, Darius couldn't help but feel disappoi
69As Howard and Lydia entered the boutique, the saleswoman's demeanor transformed instantly, her haughty expression replaced by one of deference and politeness. She hurried over to greet them with a warm smile, eager to assist.Howard and Lydia's eyes widened in shock, then quickly narrowed into ex
70Darius strode purposefully towards the costume department, Leslie following close behind. He could feel Howard and Lydia's scathing glares burning into his back but refused to give them the satisfaction of a reaction. As he perused the racks of elegant costumes, Darius's eyes lit up with interes
71The saleswoman's eyes lit up with malicious glee as she declared the total once again. "One hundred and fifty thousand dollars, please." Darius stood there, facing the saleswoman's smug grin with an air of calm confidence. Inside, though, he was seething. How dare she assume he couldn't afford i
72The saleswoman's smirk twisted into a triumphant grin as she saw the two security guards approaching, ready to oust Darius from the store. Darius, however, held up a hand, motioning for them to wait. His heart pounded in his chest as he turned back to the saleswoman, his mind racing with frustra