Chapter 148 The Trap
Fiorello advanced towards Samwise, each step echoing ominously in the room. With every footfall, a new wave of anxiety washed over Samwise. A cold smile graced Fiorello's lips as he turned to William and Steven, his henchmen, and commanded, "Both of you, leave." Without a word, they complied, closing the door behind them with a soft click.Crossing the room, Fiorello eased himself onto a genuine leather sofa, his movements as elegant as they were nonchalant. He lit a cigarette, the ember casting a soft glow on his face. His gaze landed on Samwise, his voice as icy as his demeanor, "Tell me everything you know."Samwise had initially planned to tease Fiorello, to intrigue him, but he quickly dismissed the idea. Any misstep could lead to his expulsion. He was here for one reason only - money. If he failed to repay his debts, his creditors would be merciless. The consequences could be dire, even life-threatening.Positioning his wheelchair across a golden nanmu table, Samwise began, "Mr. Flores, I doubt you're aware of Maggie's premarital pregnancy. She was already pregnant when she was in college, which led to her dropping out."In truth, Samwise knew more than he let on about Maggie's past, including the reason behind her amnesia. But he wasn't foolish enough to reveal everything. He was merely stating a fact, not exactly lying. The reason behind Maggie's pregnancy was irrelevant. His goal was to provoke Fiorello and secure a hefty sum in return for his silence."Do you have any evidence?" Fiorello asked, his expression unreadable."Mr. Flores, take a look." Samwise presented the medical records of Maggie's prenatal check-ups. "The child was born four years ago and should be over four years old now. Mr. Flores, as a man who has also been deceived by Maggie, I don't want you to be deceived further."Fiorello skimmed through the documents, his demeanor as calm as ever. He had already had Samwise's private detective investigated, learning about Maggie's premarital pregnancy and her subsequent depression.Tossing the documents onto the table, Fiorello asked, "Speak, how much money do you want?"Samwise was taken aback by Fiorello's calm response. "Mr. Flores, Maggie deceived you. Aren't you angry at all?" He tried to provoke Fiorello further. "A woman of loose morals like Maggie is not worthy of being the mistress of Visionary Futures Group. Mr. Flores, Maggie has had a child with someone else before."Fiorello remained unfazed, flicking the ash off his cigarette. "You're unlucky to have encountered Maggie. Well, how much money will shut you up? You came here for money, right? Then don't waste time.""Mr. Flores, you are generous and tolerant. I truly admire you." Samwise sneered, holding up a finger. "This much, I believe you won't be stingy. Compared to your reputation, this is nothing.""Twenty million dollars?" Fiorello chuckled.Samwise smiled. "Mr. Flores, twenty million dollars is insignificant to you. As long as you give me the money, my lips will be sealed tight. I won't reveal a single word.""You have quite an appetite." Fiorello took a drag of his cigarette, and pondered for a moment, seemingly considering Samwise's terms.Afraid that Fiorello might not agree, Samwise added, "Mr. Flores, twenty million dollars in exchange for your good reputation, I believe that's a very profitable deal. Exposing Maggie's scandal wouldn't be good for anyone."Fiorello sneered, "Fine, deal. Give me your bank account number, and I'll transfer twenty million dollars to you right now. Once you have the money, you must leave Cyberland. If this matter leaks out, I will use another way to silence you."The implication was clear - death would be the only alternative. After all, only the dead could truly keep a secret.