Chapter 3 THE WEB OF DECEIT

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Lexi woke up to the sound of footsteps outside her room. She sat up in bed, her heart racing as she wondered who it could be. The door opened, and Ambra walked in, carrying a tray with breakfast.

"Good morning," Ambra said, her voice dripping with sweetness. "I brought you some breakfast. Ethan thought you might be hungry."

Lexi eyed Ambra warily, unsure of what to make of her sudden kindness. "Thanks," she said, trying to sound polite.

Ambra set the tray down on the bedside table and turned to leave. "By the way, Ethan wants to see you in his office at 10 am. Don't be late."

Lexi nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. What did Ethan want to talk to her about?

After Ambra left, Lexi got out of bed and began to get ready for the day. She took a shower, dressed in the clothes that had been provided for her, and made her way to Ethan's office.

When she arrived, Ethan was sitting behind his desk, looking every inch the powerful businessman. "Ah, Lexi," he said, smiling. "Thanks for coming."

Lexi took a seat in the chair opposite his desk, trying to look confident. "What did you want to talk to me about?" she asked.

Ethan leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together. "I've been thinking," he said. "You're a smart woman, Lexi. I think you could be very useful to me."

Lexi's heart sank. What did Ethan have planned for her?

"I want you to work for me," Ethan continued. "I'll give you a job, a place to live, and a salary. All you have to do is do what I say."

Lexi felt a surge of anger. Did Ethan really think she would just roll over and do his bidding?

"I'm not interested," she said, trying to sound firm.

Ethan's smile grew wider. "I think you are," he said. "You see, Lexi, you don't have a lot of options right now. You're in my debt, and you're going to have to pay me back."

Lexi felt a chill run down her spine. What did Ethan mean?

"I don't know what you're talking about," she said, trying to sound brave.

Ethan leaned forward, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Don't play dumb, Lexi," he said. "I know all about your little secret. And I'm willing to use it against you if you don't do what I say."

Lexi's heart was racing now. What secret was Ethan talking about? And what did he plan to do with it?