Chapter Forty: Shadows of Success

Liam was hunched over his desk, staring blankly at the computer screen as doubts and insecurities swirled through his mind. This entire tangled web he had woven with Jamal was spiraling further out of control with each passing day. Just how far was he willing to go to con Ava out of her inheritance?

A sharp rap at his office door made Liam jump. He called out a distracted "Come in" as the door burst open. It was his best friend Alex, eyes wide with excitement.

"Liam! My man!" Alex boomed, strutting across the room with a huge grin. "You're never gonna believe the amazing news I've got!"

Liam eyed his friend warily. "What is it, Alex? I'm kind of occupied trying to figure some things out right now."