Chapter Fourteen – Desperate Measures
Three days. That was all the blackmailer had given her.
Zara stood in front of her mirror, applying lipstick with trembling hands. The reflection staring back at her was flawless: smooth skin, glossy lips, hair cascading in perfect waves. But behind the mask, her eyes screamed panic.
She had tried everything—begging Tasha for another "loan," pawning off one of the borrowed dresses she hadn't yet returned, even calling in favors from half-friends in the influencer circuit. Nothing came close to half a million.
The only option left was the one she swore she would never touch.
By 7 p.m., she was at The Velvet Lounge, dressed in a black silk gown that hugged her curves like danger. The club was crawling with men who had more money than they knew what to do with—and Zara knew exactly how to play their game.
She spotted Chief Williams, a wealthy businessman twice her age, already surrounded by a small entourage. His eyes flicked to her as she approached, and the slow smile that spread across his face told her everything she needed.
"Zara Martins," he drawled, extending a hand heavy with gold rings. "The Instagram goddess herself. To what do I owe this pleasure?"
Zara forced a dazzling smile, even as her stomach twisted. "I thought it was time we finally had that drink."
The hours blurred in a haze of champagne, fake laughter, and practiced flirtation. Chief's hand lingered too long on her thigh, his words laced with promises she didn't want to hear. But when he leaned in and whispered, "Whatever you need, darling, I can provide—for a price," Zara's resolve cracked.
She told herself it was just business. Just survival. But as she left the club with his business card burning a hole in her clutch, shame gnawed at her ribs.
By the time she stumbled back into her apartment, her phone was already buzzing.
Unknown Number: Two days. I hope you're working hard. Your time is almost up.
Zara collapsed onto the bed, clutching her phone to her chest. She had the contact now, the promise of quick money