Chapter 31: Deals and Deceptions

Chloe's Point of View

The tension in the room felt almost suffocating as Derek settled himself in a chair, casually crossing one leg over the other. His sharp, appraising gaze shifted between Jonathan and me, like he was calculating every reaction, every weakness.

Jonathan's hands clenched, but his expression remained calm, though his eyes burned with barely controlled anger. "Derek, get to the point. I don't have time for games."

Derek smirked, leaning back in the chair, exuding an air of calm that was as irritating as it was unnerving. "Oh, Jonathan, it's not a game. It's business. And I'm here to discuss a mutually beneficial opportunity."

I shifted uneasily, watching Jonathan's reaction. Derek's words were slippery, and his demeanor made me wary, like a predator stalking its prey.

Jonathan's eyes narrowed. "What kind of 'opportunity' could you possibly offer me that I'd be interested in?"