Damian led her into his penthouse, the city lights casting a warm glow over the sleek, modern space. He poured himself a drink before turning to face her.
"Your father and I had a… complicated history," he began.
"Complicated how?" Elena demanded.
"He saved me once," Damian said quietly. "When I was young and reckless. I owed him everything. But years later, we made a deal that changed everything. He wanted to protect you, Elena, even if it meant sacrificing the firm."
Elena's chest tightened. "You're lying," she whispered.
"I'm not," Damian said, stepping closer. "And I've been trying to protect you ever since."
Elena shook her head, tears burning her eyes. "You're the reason my life is falling apart," she said, her voice breaking.
"I'm the reason you're still standing," Damian countered, his gaze intense. "You don't have to believe me, but it's the truth."
Before she could respond, the sound of shattering glass cut through the room. A masked intruder burst in, brandishing a gun.
"Get down!" Damian shouted, pulling Elena into his arms as bullets ripped through the air.