Chapter 281

Anna Ross's fingertips trembled slightly.

She knew exactly what the disappearance of the ledger meant.

The suffocating weight of debt would vanish into thin air.

Her mother would finally be free from his control.

Howard Lowell tapped the tabletop.

"Anna, have you made your decision?"

His voice carried an undeniable pressure.

The offer was indeed tempting.

Freedom was within reach.

But she clutched the hem of her clothes, remaining silent.

Adrian Sinclair's face flashed through her mind.

She couldn't harm him.

Howard narrowed his eyes.

He picked up his teacup and took a slow sip.

"You only get one chance."

"That money—you could work yourself to death for half a lifetime and still not pay it back."

Anna's heart constricted.

He was right.

That debt was a bottomless abyss.

Howard suddenly leaned forward.

"Or perhaps—" he drew out the words, "you've developed real feelings for him?"

"No!"

The denial burst from her lips.

She immediately turned her face away.

Her heart raced wildly.

Howard scoffed.

"Better not have."

"Remember, he is my enemy."

"Your only task is to use him."

The word "use" pierced her ears like needles.

Anna jerked her head up.

"I can't do it."

Howard's expression froze.

He clearly hadn't expected her refusal.

"Are you insane?" He grabbed her shoulder. "The ledger—"

Anna shook him off forcefully.

"I will repay the money."

"But don't expect me to help you hurt anyone else."

Howard's face darkened instantly.

He drummed his fingers on the table.

"I'll ask one last time."

"Do you agree or not?"

Anna stood straight and tall.

"My answer won't change."

Howard suddenly laughed.

He strolled leisurely to Vivian's bedroom door.

"What about your mother then?"

"Will you abandon her too?"

Anna's throat tightened.

Her mother was her weakness.

But this time, she couldn't give in.

"You promised," her voice trembled. "You said you'd let Mom go if I helped you get into the main company."

Howard played with his lighter.

"I did say that."

"But the condition was that you continue working for me."

Anna's nails dug into her palms.

She should have seen it sooner.

This man would never keep his word.

Vivian emerged carrying a fruit platter.

Sensing the tense atmosphere, she gently took her daughter's arm.

"Anna, what's wrong?"

Anna shook her head.

She forced a smile.

"It's nothing, Mom."

Some storms, she had to weather alone.