The loud click of the lock sounded exactly like a prison cell slamming shut. They took one look at Terrence standing over me and instantly assessed the situation. I expected at least a fraction of parental instinct to kick in a momentary hesitation, seeing their eldest daughter threatened by a wealthy outsider, but there was no hesitation.
The hierarchy of this family was set in stone. Terrence was the golden goose, and I was the sacrificial lamb. Terrence smoothly adjusted his suit jacket, his menacing demeanor dissolving into a charismatic, predatory smile. He looked at my father and nodded. Your daughter and I were just finalizing the terms of her financial contribution to this union.
Richard, I believe you have the necessary paperwork ready. Richard did not look at me. He reached into the inner breast pocket of his tailored tuxedo and pulled out a thick folded legal document. He stepped forward and slapped the papers down onto the center of the desk, right next to the glowing laptop screen that still displayed their federal crime.
