Chapter 5 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO LIE
Emma met Adrian the next morning in his attorney's office.
Not his mansion.
Not a secret warehouse.
A legitimate office building downtown.
She had insisted on a public setting.
Adrian agreed immediately.
He stood when she entered.
Emma noticed the difference.
No Nolan.
No interpreter standing between them.
Just Adrian.
And a certified independent interpreter seated nearby in case anyone needed assistance.
Emma signed:
Someone threatened my mother.
Adrian nodded.
I know.
She showed him the photograph.
His expression darkened.
Have you reported it?
Yes.
Good.
Emma swallowed.
They want me to say the dinner was real.
Adrian went still.
Why?
I don't know.
He studied her.
Then signed:
Perhaps they want evidence that I paid a woman to come to my home.
Emma stared.
Her stomach dropped.
Blackmail?
Possibly.
She looked down.
Why would Nolan do that?
Adrian hesitated.
Then answered:
Because someone wants to take control of my companies.
Adrian explained that several Voss businesses were undergoing a major restructuring.
He planned to sell certain high-risk holdings and bring independent oversight into others.
Some associates opposed the changes.
Nolan had been responsible for coordinating the transition.
If Adrian were publicly accused of exploiting vulnerable women, the scandal could undermine his authority and derail negotiations.
Emma felt sick.
They wanted to use me.
Adrian nodded.
Yes.
She looked at him.
And you.
His expression changed.
For a moment, he looked almost surprised.
Then he signed:
Yes.
Emma took a deep breath.
I'm not going to lie.
Adrian watched her.
Even if they threaten me.
He signed slowly:
You shouldn't have to face them alone.
Emma's eyes filled.
I don't trust powerful men.
Adrian nodded.
You have good reasons.
She studied him.
Then signed:
I don't know if I trust you.
He answered:
Then don't. Judge what I do.
And Emma realized she had never met a man like Adrian Voss.
Not because he was rich.
May you like
Not because he was feared.
But because he was willing to let her decide for herself.
