05

5

When I finally arrived at the hospital, I discovered my father had been transferred to intensive care.

Peering through the glass, I saw him resting in the bed, surrounded by various medical equipment, appearing far more frail than his actual age.

Ryan approached me with a tablet, his voice filled with sympathy.

"Miss..."

[Parker Group shares crash. Rumors suggest MG Group is considering a buyout.]

Nearby, Nathan stood clutching the agreement, waving it at me with a grin.

I thrust the tablet back to Ryan and strode towards Nathan.

"This is your doing, isn't it?"

My eyes stung with tears I refused to shed, and my chest felt heavy, but I wouldn't allow myself to break down.

Nathan thrust the contract against me.

"Sign it!"

I looked at him and slapped him straightly:

"What do you want?"

"What do I have to do for you to let me go?"

Tears keep leaving, I can't control my emotions.

Nathan grabbed my chin. "Be my girl and you'll give you what you want."