steering wheel tightly, knuckles turned white from the pressure. B

ine provided a steady backd

t his focus remained locked on the upcoming meeting at Richard's office. The weight of t

nd the rearview mirror, wondering

see him, having told him that he couldn'

o Mr. Richard for help, their peacefu

a text to Bella, telling her not to in

's office building and, with a deep breath, fi

er. He exited the car, adjusted his tie, and smoothed down his s

ptionist greeted him with a warm smile an

rtwork and soft, muted colors that contrast

A muffled voice from within invited him to enter. Pushing the door open, Charles stepped into

sly, "I almost wondered if you'd come

miss it. Y

eat." Richard of

ard. The leather chair felt plush and comfortable, a star

eir eyes meeting as they mentally prepa

How should I start?" He paused a bit, "I have

go on." Char

eating around the bush; he prefe

r both of them and their businesses if Bell

This can't work out; my daug

etting married until she bears h

umor about you

ncy and let her adopt. It's not a problem. The onl

. Bella is no longer a kid anymore. She has the ri

g all your bills and giving you a financial foothold only if you let th

o say; this was an offer he couldn't resi

much she hated Alexander; she would

temper, she would always say that she pitied Bailey for agreeing to marry him, fo

He couldn't imagine being the same person to tell her that sh

silence, "Can you give me time to think about this

ue by reminding you of the achievements she has made in the technology world. Sh

Baile

agreed because of the relati

they both needed each other, but

today. I hope Bella agrees

call." Richard stood up

ice and headed to his car. He was so in his head

once he was in, he let out a loud

I do now?"

unt balance, and that alone was enough reas

tuation, the bank sent him a notification telling him

s to do is give birth," he said as he sent a text to Bella, telling her that once s