Chapter 9 A Meeting with the Enemy

Gavin stood outside the luxurious office building, his heart racing with anticipation. He had agreed to meet with Sophia's father, Victor, in an attempt to negotiate a peace treaty. As he entered the building, Gavin was greeted by Victor's imposing figure. The man was tall and broad, with a menacing scowl etched on his face. "Gavin," Victor said, his voice dripping with malice. "I've heard a lot about you." Gavin nodded, his eyes locked on Victor's. "Likewise," he replied. The two of them sat down in Victor's opulent office, surrounded by lavish furnishings and expensive artwork.

"I'm sure you know why I've agreed to meet with you," Gavin said, getting straight to the point. Victor nodded, a sly smile spreading across his face. "You want to negotiate a peace treaty," he said. Gavin nodded. "That's right. I don't want any more bloodshed." Victor leaned forward, his eyes glinting with amusement. "And what do you propose we do instead?" he asked. Gavin took a deep breath, knowing that he had to tread carefully. "I propose that we divide the territory," he said. "We'll take the north side, and you can have the south." Victor's expression turned thoughtful, and for a moment, Gavin thought he saw a glimmer of hope. But then Victor's face hardened, and he let out a cold laugh. "You think it's that simple?" he sneered. "You think I'll just roll over and let you take the north side?" Gavin's heart sank, and he knew that he had underestimated Victor's determination. "It's not going to be easy," Gavin said, his voice firm. "But I'm willing to try." Victor's expression turned calculating, and for a moment, Gavin wondered what he was thinking. And then Victor spoke, his voice dripping with malice. "I'll tell you what, Gavin," he said. "I'll agree to your proposal... but only if you agree to one condition." Gavin's heart was racing, and he knew that he had to be careful. "What's the condition?" he asked. Victor's smile was cold and calculating. "You have to give me Sophia," he said. Gavin's eyes widened in shock, and he knew that he had to make a choice. Would he sacrifice Sophia to save the peace treaty? Or would he find another way to protect her? Only time would tell.