Johnny Lance and the Seven Deadly Sins System of Wealth

f liquor. He was holding a bottle almost empty of cheap bourbon with one damp label hanging off. In contrast, the image of his daughter, Lily. Her bright, gap-toothed smile was an echo

waved his arms dramatically at Marcus, who was now grinning. "For him?" "I'm not joking," Elena remarked, folding her arms. "I'm simply pointing out the fact that this-is-it hasn't worked for quite some time now. And Marcus... he has supported me in ways that you have not." Johnny's hands shook as he bent down to pick up the papers. His eyes scanned the words, but they blurred together. Divorce. Custody. Full custody. "You want to take Lily?" His voice was barely a whisper. "She's better off with me," Elena said flatly. "You don't have the time or the stability to take care of her." "Stability?" Johnny's voice rose, his anger bubbling over. "You think running off with my business partner is stable? Is that what you're telling her?" "Johnny," Marcus interrupted, stepping between them. "This isn't helping anyone. Why don't you just sign the papers and move on?" Johnny's fist flew before he could stop himself. It connected with Marcus's jaw, sending him stumbling back onto the bed. Elena screamed. "Get the fuck out of my house!" Johnny bellowed, his voice trembling with rage. "Both of you, leave now!" Marcus cleaned his mouth, a shadowy grin appearing on his face. "You're making a mistake, Johnny. Well, I guess you were always the hot-tempered one." Johnny lunged, but before he could get to him, the noise of heavy boots on the stairs froze him in place. Two security officers showed up at the entrance-individuals he knew from his own firm, now seemingly employed by Marcus. "Gentlemen, please escort Mr. Lance out," Marcus instructed, adjusting his tie. Johnny fought against the guards as they seized him, pulling him down the stairs. Elena did not stop them. She didn't even glance at him as he was pushed out the door and into the street. The door closed loudly behind him. He remained motionless, astonished, as the chilly night breeze nipped at his flesh. The lilies he had brought were flattened on the pavement. --- In the present moment, Johnny's hold on the bottle grew stronger. He gazed at the picture once more, his sight becoming hazy. "I am sorry, Lily," he murmured. "I should have fought with more determination. I should have done better ..." His phone vibrated on the coffee table. Initially, he paid no attention to it, but it buzzed once more. And once more. At last, he leaned in, grabbing it quickly. Marcus's name illuminated the display. Johnny tighte