Heir of Deception | (for mature audience)

[Part 1] Chapter 1: Christian

Christian

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My office was silent, save for the rhythmic ticking of the antique clock on the wall. I sat behind the mahogany desk, fingers drumming a steady beat as I waited for Anthony Carter to arrive. The man was notoriously late-a trait that irked me to no end. Punctuality was a virtue I held in high regard, especially in business. Every minute wasted was a minute lost in the pursuit of success.

"Mr. Calloway, Mr. Carter is here to see you," my assistant, Serena, said, peeking through the door.

"Let him in," I replied, trying to shake off the irritation that had begun to creep in.

The door creaked open, and Anthony strolled in, a smug smile plastered across his face. He was a man in his late fifties, sporting a full head of silver hair and an air of arrogance that seemed to precede him. He took his seat across from me, his eyes twinkling with mischief that set my nerves on edge.

"Good afternoon, Christian," he greeted, his voice smooth and confident, as if he had just won a battle in a game of chess.

"Anthony," I replied curtly. "Can I get you something to drink?" I asked, walking over to the bar in my office.

I didn't usually make it a habit to drink on the job, but when days were stressful, I poured myself the occasional glass of top-shelf scotch. I poured two glasses, one for myself and one for Anthony, needing something strong to brace myself for what was sure to be an infuriating conversation.

"Anthony," I said, handing him a coaster along with the glass before I returned to my seat behind the desk. "Let's discuss the land deal."

Anthony leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "Ah, the land. Prime real estate, isn't it? Perfect for your new project."

The property that I want is in great to west Manhattan, wich has easy access to the business district of New York and public transportation. The neighborhood in which he own piece of dirt is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions, which attract both residents and visitors. The place is perfect for Calloway Properties's new apartment building.

"Yes, it is," I replied, my patience wearing thin. "And I believe we agreed on a fair price."

He chuckled, a sound that grated on my nerves like nails on a chalkboard. "We did, but I've had a change of heart. You see, Christian, I have something else in mind."

I narrowed my eyes, sensing a trap. "What do you mean?"

Anthony's smile widened, revealing a hint of something sinister. "I want you to marry my daughter, Alexandria."

The words hung in the air, heavy and suffocating. I stared at him, incredulous. "Excuse me?"

"You heard me," he said, his tone unwavering. "Marry Alexandria, and the land is yours."

A surge of anger rose within me. This was absurd. "This is a business deal, Anthony, not a matchmaking service."

He shrugged, unfazed by my outburst. "Consider it a merger of sorts. Alexandria is a remarkable young woman, and I believe you two would make a formidable team."

I clenched my jaw, my mind racing. Alexandria Carter was a name I knew well. A model, she was a fixture in the social scene, known for her beauty and charm. But marriage? This was a step too far.

"And if I refuse?" I asked, my voice cold, betraying none of the turmoil inside me.

Anthony's smile faded, replaced by a steely determination that sent a chill down my spine. "Then the deal is off. The land will remain in my possession."