The Billionaire's Dilemma

The next morning, Emily sat at her desk, reviewing the documents Lisa had sent overnight. The evidence was damning millions siphoned through fake companies, all traced back to Marcus Caldwell.

Her phone buzzed. It was Lisa.

"I found more," Lisa said without preamble. "Marcus isn't just moving money he's been buying influence. Judges, politicians he's got them all in his pocket."

Emily's blood ran cold. This was bigger than she'd imagined. If Marcus could buy silence, exposing him wouldn't be easy or safe.

"Thanks, Lisa," she said. "Send me everything."

As she hung up, her office door swung open. It was Marcus.

"Miss Taylor," he greeted, his voice smooth but cold. "I thought we should talk."

Emily's pulse quickened, but she forced herself to stay calm. "What brings you here?"

Marcus smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "You've been asking questions. About me." He stepped closer. "I'd suggest you stop while you still can."

"Is that a threat?" Emily challenged, meeting his gaze.

"A friendly warning," he corrected. "I'd hate to see your promising career… derailed."

Emily's heart pounded, but she held her ground. "I'm not scared of you, Marcus."

His smile widened. "You should be. I don't lose, Miss Taylor."

He turned to leave but paused at the door. "Whatever you think you know you're only scratching the surface. If you dig too deep, you might not like what you find."

When the door shut behind him, Emily released a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

Marcus knew she was onto him and now, the stakes were higher than ever.