Chapter 241

The loan agreement on her phone screen burned into Sophia Lowell's eyes. A principal of 45 million, doubled with additional loans, now ballooned into a staggering debt. Emily Laurent's signature and fingerprint were unmistakable.

"Convinced now?" The man's mocking voice dripped through the receiver. "Black and white contract. Chopping off your aunt's hand wouldn't even be illegal. Calling the cops? Don't waste your time."

Her knuckles whitened around the phone. He'd anticipated her move.

"Three minutes." His tone turned glacial. "Bring the money, or collect her body."

"45 million isn't small change!" Her voice trembled. "I need time—"

"Final offer. Not a negotiation." The line went dead with a jarring dial tone.

The darkened screen reflected Sophia's ashen face. Sweat soaked her back. How had Emily gotten entangled with loan sharks? Her bank balance was a drop in the ocean compared to the debt.

The three minutes evaporated. When the phone rang again, her hand shook as she answered.

"Proof she's alive." She forced steadiness into her voice.

The video showed Emily unconscious, bound to a chair. Sophia's heart lurched.

"Just keeping her quiet." The man chuckled. "Pay up, and she walks out unharmed. We want money, not blood."

"Two hours." His voice hardened. "One minute late, and her right hand arrives as a greeting gift."

The dial tone screeched again. As Sophia started her car, the rearview mirror showed her ghostly pallor. Emily's limp form haunted her mind.

At the studio district intersection, a black Maybach glided to a stop.

"Isn't that Tiffany Roscente's car?" Felix Roland pointed at a red sports car speeding away.

Ethan Roscente narrowed his eyes. A black-helmeted motorcyclist materialized, tailing the vehicle like a phantom.