"Marry you?" he repeated, his voice low and dangerous. "You think after everything you've done, I'd ever consider such a thing?"

"Think about it, Kent," she said, her voice whispered with a dangerous edge. "Your investors won't budge, your suppliers are tightening their belts, and your precious empire is sinking faster than a stone. I'm your only lifeline."

Kent leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "You underestimate me, Jennifer. I built this empire from the ground up. And I won't let you destroy it."

He stood up, his gaze unwavering. "I may not have all the answers yet, but I will find them. And when I do, you'll...