Chapter 24 - The Veiled Threat
Two days later, Elena was attending a public ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new pediatric wing funded by their initiative.
As she stepped off the podium, a tall, imposing man in a tailored silver suit approached her. He had cold, reptilian eyes and a smile that did not reach the rest of his face.
"Mrs. Vance. A beautiful speech,"
William Croft said, extending his hand.
Elena did not take it. Her survival instincts, honed in the darkest depths of trauma, flared instantly.
"Mr. Croft. I am surprised to see you at a charity event,"
Elena replied, her voice composed and entirely fearless.
"I have a deep interest in real estate, Elena. I hear your foundation is struggling to acquire land in the north."
Croft lowered his voice, stepping uncomfortably close.
"It is a dangerous game, trying to rewrite the rules of this city. Sometimes, foundations run out of money. Sometimes, families run out of luck."
"Are you threatening me, William?"
Elena asked, staring directly into his cold eyes.
"Just offering a piece of friendly advice,"
May you like
Croft smiled an ugly, malicious smile.
"Tell your husband that debts eventually have to be paid."
