Chapter 17: The Arranged Encounter
Three days later, Liam arrived at his father's estate for a mandatory dinner. The Chief looked frailer than usual, propped up in his high-backed mahogany chair, but his eyes still held the fire of a man used to getting his way. Seated across from him was a man Liam recognized—Chief Adenuga, a powerful political ally. And beside him sat the "shattered phone" girl from the mall. Her eyes widened as Liam entered the room, her smug expression faltering for a split second before transforming into a triumphant smirk.
"Liam, my son," the elder Sterling wheezed, gesturing toward the girl. "You remember Sandra? You two were in primary school together before she went off to Switzerland. Her father and I have been talking. It's time the Sterling and Adenuga legacies were united. We've already discussed the dowry and the merger of our logistics firms. It's a perfect match."
Sandra preened, smoothing her dress. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Liam," she said, her voice now sweet as poisoned honey. "Though our meeting at the mall was... unconventional, I'm sure we can move past it." She looked at her father and the Chief as if the deal was already sealed, as if Liam were a piece of property to be traded between two old men over cognac.