Skylar strode into the building, his bodyguards flanking him. The lobby was sleek and modern, with a stunning chandelier casting a cold glow. He headed straight for the elevators, the suited man from earlier nodding as he passed.
The doors slid open, and Skylar stepped in, Viktor and Marcus following close behind. The elevator shot up to the penthouse, the cityscape blurring outside.
When the doors opened, Skylar was greeted by a stunning blonde in a tight dress. "Mr. Petrov is waiting," she said, her voice husky.
Skylar's gaze locked onto hers for a moment before he nodded and even though he felt disgusted with the way she looked at him, he still followed her into the office.!
Skylar entered the office, his eyes scanning the room.
His father, Alexander Smith, sat behind the massive desk, a cold smile on his face. Beside him sat a poised woman with piercing green eyes - his mother, Victoria.
"Ah, Skylar," Alexander said, his voice dripping with authority. "You have finally decided to visit us "
"Have a sit son, so we can discuss about your mom's upcoming birthday "
Skylar took the offered seat, the leather chair cool against his back. The office smelled of polished wood and expensive perfume, mixing with the faint scent of his mother's jasmine perfume that reminded him of home.
"Father," Skylar said, his voice steady, "I came because I need to know where I stand in this family business, not to talk about mom's birthday."
Alexander Petrov leaned forward, the cold smile turning into a calculating stare. "You've always been a wild card, Skylar. Your mother and I have watched you drift into… questionable circles."
Victoria, his mother, spoke softly, her green eyes piercing into his soul. "We want you to choose a path, son. Either you align with us and learn the true meaning of loyalty, or you continue on your own and face the consequences."
Skylar's jaw tightened. "I've made my choices. I won't be a puppet."
Alexander's eyes glinted. "Then prove it. There's a job—dangerous, but it will show us your worth. Accept, and you earn our trust. Refuse, and you leave this family for good."
The room fell silent, the tension thick enough to cut. Skylar glanced between his parents, weighing the weight of blood against the weight of his own ambitions!!