MALIA’S POV

“Financial obligations? What kind?” He eventually asked.

I hesitated, searching for something plausible. “I have investments that need immediate attention. A property deal that’s about to fall through if I don’t get the funds soon.”

He leaned back, a sceptical smile playing on his lips. “You expect me to believe that? You think I don’t know how good you were with money even back in high school? What aren’t you telling me, Malia?”

I clenched my fists, struggling to maintain my composure. “It’s complicated, alright? I don’t have time to explain everything. But it’s true, I need those funds now.”

"It's... complicated," I stammered, trying to find the...