Chapter 5 - The Offer on the Table
Back in the study, Helena stepped back, putting physical distance between herself and Adrian. The revelation was too heavy, too surreal to process all at once.
“That was a long time ago,” Helena said, shaking her head. “Children do foolish things. I didn't save you for a reward, Mr. Falkner, and I certainly didn't expect to be tracked down years later while carrying a tray of champagne.”
“It wasn't foolish,” Adrian said firmly. “It was bravery. And ever since that night, I made a vow: whoever carried that mark earned a debt from the Falkner family that can never be fully repaid. Yet you’ve been living in a cramped apartment in South Chicago, working two jobs just to keep your foster mother’s kidney treatments paid for.”
Helena froze. “You investigated me?”
“I investigate everyone who enters my orbit,” Adrian admitted without hesitation. “Especially when they carry my salvation on their spine. Helena, your mother’s medical debt is cleared as of five minutes ago. I’ve already transferred the funds to St. Jude’s Hospital.”
Instead of relief, a hot flash of anger surged through Helena. She shrugged off his oversized jacket, letting it drop unceremoniously onto the leather armchair, and stared him straight in the eye.
“I didn't ask for your charity!” Helena’s voice rose, sharp and unyielding. “You think because you’re rich, because you own half of Chicago, you can just walk into my life and buy my gratitude? Keep your money, Mr. Falkner. I earned every dollar I made honestly, and I don't need a savior.”
She turned toward the door, her hand gripping the brass knob.
May you like
“If you walk out that door tonight,” Adrian said quietly, his voice carrying an undeniable weight, “Vivienne Laurent and her father will make sure your catering company never works another corporate event in this city again. They destroy people like you for sport. Let me protect you.”
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