Chapter 5 - The Ultimatum
Julian stood up slowly, keeping Mia safely behind his back. The gentle warmth in his eyes vanished, replaced by an intimidating, cold resolve that made even Richard Vance take a subtle step backward.
"You threaten my foundation, Richard?" Julian asked, his voice low and dangerous.
Naomi took several fast steps forward, her gold gown shimmering under the chandeliers as she rushed to pull Mia behind her. Her hands were shaking uncontrollably, her eyes wide with terror—not of Julian, but of Richard Vance.
"Julian, please… we didn't come to ruin your night," Naomi begged, her voice trembling. "Mia just ran ahead when she saw your poster outside… We're leaving. Please don't fight them."
"You aren't going anywhere, Naomi," Julian said firmly, stepping between her and the approaching venue security guards. "Six years ago, you disappeared from my apartment without a trace. Every call went to a dead line. Your apartment was cleared in four hours."
Naomi looked down at the marble floor, fresh tears spilling over her lashes. "I had no choice, Julian… They told me you would go to prison if I stayed."
May you like
Julian’s eyes widened in horror. "Who told you that?"
👉 Who had forced Naomi to run away six years ago?
