Chapter 162 - The Predator's Power Play

*Scarlett's POV*

The words hit me like ice water. I stand frozen in Bianca's office doorway, certain I've misheard.

"What did you say?"

"I can't let you work here anymore." Bianca's voice is barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry, Scarlett."

"But we signed contracts. The money is already transferred."

"I'll return every penny."

"I don't understand. Yesterday you were thrilled about our partnership."

Bianca won't meet my eyes. "Things have changed."

"What things?"

"I can't explain."

"You can't explain?" My voice rises. "Bianca, we've been planning this for months. You said I was the perfect fit for your company."

"You are. You were. It's not about your qualifications."

"Then what is it about?"

She finally looks at me, and I see fear in her expression. Real fear.

"Someone made it clear that employing you would be... problematic."

"Who?"

"I can't say."

"The Donovan family."

Her flinch tells me everything.

"Gabriel threatened you."