Chase’s eyes scanned the encrypted folder, his heart racing with anticipation. The revelation that his grandfather had bought a hotel with stolen funds from Ariel’s father’s company left him reeling. He stormed out of his office, determined to confront his grandfather.
“Grandfather, how could you?” Chase demanded, his voice shaking with anger.
His grandfather remained calm, unapologetic.
“It was just business, Chase.”
Chase’s suggestion to give Ariel the hotel was met with refusal, citing Caleb as the sole successor. Chase felt betrayed and left out, his world crumbling around him.
He called Ariel, his heart heavy with emotion.
“Ariel, I need to see you. I have something to tell you.”
Ariel’s voice was hesitant, but she agreed to meet him at the mall where she was shopping with th
