Chapter 4 THE INVITATION

Grace stood silently as the tall glass doors of Damon Cole's office closed behind her. The room was wide and sleek, filled with expensive furniture that only made her feel more out of place. He was on a call, seated behind a dark wooden desk, fingers drumming against the surface without looking her way.

She clasped her hands together and tried not to fidget.

After what felt like forever, he ended the call and finally looked up at her. His gaze swept over her in one slow, unimpressed motion.

"So... you're the girl that wrote that letter," he said.

Grace nodded, unsure if she was allowed to speak.

"You want help paying your school fees," he continued flatly. "You think your little letter will do the trick?"

She swallowed. "Sir, I didn't mean to-"

"I don't want to hear excuses," he cut in sharply. "Come to my house tomorrow. Six p.m. Don't be late."

Grace blinked. "Your house?"

He leaned back in his chair, still watching her with that same cold stare. "Do you want my help or not?"

She hesitated, her heart pounding. "But... I thought we could-"

"Don't waste my time," he said, standing up. "You know the address. Get out."

Grace stepped back slowly, then turned and left without another word.

As she walked through the company hallway, her mind spun with thoughts. What kind of man invites a girl to his house just like that? Was this what he did with every girl that came to him for help?

She clutched her bag tighter. She had only wanted help... nothing more.

"Lord," she whispered under her breath, "please don't let this be a mistake".