chapter 6-7 taking a risk

"...,...for the safety of your family especially your brother, let's meet and have a sweet discussion. I'm not planning to harm you," Mr. Lucas's voice echoed in my mind after ending the call. I tried to mask my fear, pretending everything was normal. Lucian noticed my unease and questioned me, but I brushed off his concern, focusing on lunch.

Returning home, I postponed our discussion to another time. I knew that the decision I was about to make could have far-reaching consequences. As I contemplated my next steps, I remembered Alicia's words: "You don't need anybody to tell you who you are or what you are. You are what you are!" I needed to be strong and face this challenge head-on.

With determination, I realized that the best way to gain self-confidence was to do what I was afraid to do. But I couldn't risk involving Mr. Alex or anyone else close to me. I had to handle this on my own. I shared my thoughts with Alicia, who provided unwavering support and encouragement.

As Alicia led me to a secret passage out of the building, I felt a mixture of apprehension and determination. She promised to keep me safe, and I trusted her completely. I left the safety of the mansion, stepping into the unknown.

Arriving at DEB restaurant, I entered with cautious anticipation. Mr. Lucas was already waiting for me, his cold aura immediately noticeable. I greeted him with a smile, attempting to appear confident. Our eyes met, and an unspoken tension filled the air.

"You may have your seat," he said, breaking the silence. I settled into my chair, conscious of his gaze on me. The waiter had already set the table with an assortment of drinks and desserts, including my favorite, surely rose wine. I wasn't fond of alcohol, but I appreciated the gesture.

As we began eating, his demeanor shifted suddenly, and the cold aura returned. He complimented me on my bravery, but his words were tinged with an unsettling intensity. My attempt to divert the conversation to confidence didn't deter him from his intention.

"I like you for being brave and..." he trailed off. I decided to respond with a quote: "I think confidence is the most appealing quality in any human being or any artist; that's what really attracts us to people." I hoped to assert my presence with strength.

Mr. Lucas's coldness persisted as he addressed me. "Well, Miss Jessy, I want you to stay away from Mr. Alex. He wants to use you against me. Your father has been my great enemy for years. I'm telling you this because I can ruin you and your family within a second. I won't hesitate to destroy your family business and you..."

His threat hung in the air, his words chilling me to the core. He emphasized that he preferred not to harm innocent people, yet his intentions were far from benign. He continued with a sinister smile, "Being in love with somebody is a wonderful feeling. And the most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved. I don't want you to be broken when you find out about Alex..."

The weight of his words pressed down on me, but I refused to show my fear. I had entered this meeting to gain self-confidence and gather information. Now, faced with the reality of Mr. Lucas's threat, I had to find a way to navigate this dangerous game while protecting myself and my loved ones.

To be continued...