Chapter 103

Austin's phone buzzed on the table, shattering the quiet of his tiny apartment. He glanced at the screen, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. It was an unknown number, but the call code matched his father's company. With a deep breath, he answered, "Hello?"

"Mr. Rufus?" A smooth, professional woman's voice filled his ear.

Austin straightened slightly. "Yes, this is he." He couldn't help but wonder who this could be. No one from his father's company ever called him.

He wondered what could be the reason they were calling.

"Mr. Rufus," the woman continued, "I apologize for the unexpected call. This is Sarah Jones, calling from Rufus Enterprises."

Yes. He was right. It was really his father's company. And Austin wondered why the lady apologized for no reason at all.

Austin's stomach lurched. Rufus Enterprises. His father's company.

"Hello, Ms. Jones," he managed, his voice tight. "How can I help you?"

"Mr. Rufus," she began and then paused for a beat too long. The silence stretched,