Catherine nervously approached Ethan. "Ethan, the boys know."
Ethan's smirk grew. "Ah, Alexander and Lucas think they're brave now?"
Catherine hesitated. "They want to expose you."
Ethan chuckled. "How quaint. Brainwashing Alexander will be easy, like a piece of cake."
Catherine's eyes dropped. "But Lucas..."
Ethan waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry about Lucas. He's too soft. Alexander's the one who needs attention."
Ethan's eyes gleamed with malevolence. "It'll take time, but I'll break Alexander. He's too concerned about those girls' futures."
Catherine's fear escalated. "Ethan, please..."
Ethan's voice turned cold. "You've done well, mother. Now, let me handle this."
Catherine knew she'd sealed her sons' fate.
Ethan began his manipulation, using Alexander's concern for the girls against him.
Alexander's room
"Alexander, you're so compassionate," Ethan said, his voice dripping with sincerity. "But do you really think you can change the world?"
Alexander hesitated. "I have to try."
Ethan's smile grew. "I admire your conviction. But sometimes, the best way to help is to work within the system."
Alexander's doubts crept in. "What do you mean?"
Ethan leaned in, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "I'm not the monster you think I am. I'm just trying to survive in a cruel world."
Alexander's resolve wavered. "But the girls..."
Ethan's expression turned sympathetic. "I know, Alexander. But sometimes, sacrifices must be made for the greater good.Alexander for whom you worrying this much,are just pawns ."
Alexander's world crumbled. Ethan's words echoed in his mind: "They're just pawns, Alexander."
He felt trapped, unsure what to believe.
Alexander's mental struggle reached its peak. He was torn between his morals and Ethan's manipulation.
Suddenly, a memory flashed: the girls' tearful faces, their pleas for help.
Alexander's resolve reignited. "No, Ethan. I won't betray my conscience."
Ethan's expression turned cold. "You'll regret this."
Ethan's expression changed from anger to calmness. "Alexander, I understand your concerns."
Alexander hesitated, unsure what to expect.
Ethan continued, "I'm willing to offer you a deal. You don't expose me, and I'll make sure you're well taken care of."
Alexander's skepticism grew. "What do you mean?"
Ethan leaned back in his chair. "You can be a freelancer, a shooter. You'll earn good money, more than enough to take care of yourself."
Alexander's thoughts swirled. The offer was tempting, but at what cost?
Ethan sensed Alexander's hesitation. "You'll have the freedom to choose your jobs, Alexander. No strings attached."
Alexander's resolve wavered. Was this an opportunity or a trap?
