Chapter 8 - The Viper’s Nest"Victor," Ethan said, his voice dropping into a dangerous, lethal octave. He stepped forward, his massive frame radiating pure intimidation. "What are you doing here?"
Victor smiled, adjusting his silk tie with arrogant ease. "Relax, Ethan. I'm just visiting family. My brother Julian is the head of pediatric neurosurgery here, remember? Though I have to admit, I was quite surprised to hear that your daughter was admitted under Dr. Hannah Mercer's care."
Ethan’s blood ran cold. The coincidence was too precise. Too calculated.
"What do you know about Hannah?" Ethan demanded, closing the distance until he was inches from Victor’s face.
Victor chuckled, unfazed by the threat. "Oh, everyone in Chicago medical circles knows Dr. Mercer. Brilliant researcher. Brilliant physician. And, coincidentally, the woman my brother Julian has been planning to propose to next month."
The words hit Ethan like a physical blow to the chest. Propose.
Victor leaned in closer, dropping his voice to a venomous whisper. "It’s a funny old world, isn’t it, Ethan? Twelve years ago, you ruined my family's real estate deals by letting your father take the fall. Now, your daughter is dying of a genetic defect carried by the very woman you threw away—a woman my brother is about to make a Vance."
Ethan’s fist clenched so hard his knuckles turned translucent. Without a second thought, he grabbed Victor by the lapels of his expensive suit and slammed him violently against the marble pillar.
"If you or your family ever go near my daughter—or Hannah—again," Ethan whispered, his voice trembling with homicidal rage, "I will dismantle Apex Capital brick by brick, and I won't stop until you're sleeping on the streets."
Victor gasped for air, his smug smile faltering under the terrifying darkness in Ethan’s eyes. "You... you can't touch me. The corporate leak is already in motion. Your company is burning, Ethan. And your daughter is running out of air."
May you like
Ethan shoved him back with disgust, wiping his hands as if he had touched filth. He turned around and sprinted back toward the elevators, his heart hammering against his ribs.
He has to tell Hannah. But more importantly... he has to protect her.
