CHAPTER FIVE

Weighing the Risks

Nicole Melbourne drove home, the city lights blurring into streaks of gold and white as she navigated the familiar streets.

The message from another unknown unknown number lingered in her thoughts, unsettling yet predictable.

She had a strong suspicion who it be, but confirmation would come soon enough.

Pulling into her driveway, she silenced the engine and leaned back against the headrest, exhaling slowly.

The Golden Globe Estate stood before her, bathed in moonlight, a silent testament to her family's legacy—a kingdom she had no intention of losing.

Her phone buzzed again. This time, it was Rachel.

"Hey, how was your meeting with Tyler?"

Nicole smirked, thumbs hovering over the screen before typing a simple response: "Complicated."

The weight of that single word sat heavy in her chest. Complicated was an understatement. A partnership with Winslow Enterprises could propel Melbourne Enterprises to new heights. But in business, success often came at a cost.

And Tyler Winslow was no ordinary businessman.

Inside, Nicole kicked off her heels, the cool marble grounding her. She poured herself a glass of wine, the deep crimson swirling in the crystal like liquid ambition. Settling onto the couch, she let herself replay the evening's events, dissecting every look, every word.

Was she walking into a trap?

Her phone vibrated again, shattering the quiet.

Unknown Number.

Her lips pressed into a thin line. So, he wasn't patient. Good to know.

She let it ring twice before answering. "Tyler."

His voice came smooth, confident. "Nicole. I wanted to reiterate my proposal. Together, we can dominate the market."

Nicole took a slow sip of wine, savoring the moment. "A bold claim, Tyler. But you and I both know partnerships aren't built on blind trust."

"You're a shrewd businesswoman," he countered. "You understand risk. The real question is—do you have the nerve to seize an opportunity when it presents itself?"

Nicole let the silence stretch, letting him wonder. Then, finally: "That depends on whether the opportunity is worth the gamble."

A low chuckle. "I'll send over the contract tomorrow. Review it, and we'll discuss further."

The line went dead.

Nicole stared at the phone, her mind already working through possible angles. Winslow never played fair. But neither did she.

She set the glass down with precision, her gaze drifting to the Melbourne family crest above the fireplace.

Anthony Bond had once made her believe in trust. He had also taught her the consequences of misplaced faith and trust.

This time, she wouldn't be blindsided.

This time, she would control the game.