Billionaire's captive Heart

bag tightly as she walked down the street. She had been so certain that her job at the café was secure-something solid in her otherwise uncertain life. But now, it felt like everything was cru

ng her back when she tried to stand. "Come on, Lila. You know we've always had something between us. Why fight it?" "No, Max," she snapped, yanking her hand free. "Stay away from me!" She jumped to her feet, but Max grabbed her arm again. Panic surged through her as she struggled to get away. "Max, let go of me!" With all her strength, Lila fought her way out of his grasp, shoving him aside before bolting for the door. She didn't stop running until she was far from his apartment, her heart pounding in her chest. By the time Lila found herself at a nearby club, her hands were still shaking from the encounter. She had never expected Max to act like that. He was supposed to be her friend, her ally, not someone who would take advantage of her when she was vulnerable. She ordered drink after drink, trying to drown the bitterness rising in her throat. Why did everything have to go so wrong? The lights of the club blurred together, and soon, Lila felt herself slipping into a dull haze. Just as she reached for another drink, a man approached her, his voice smooth but unfamiliar. "Hey, are you okay?" he asked, glancing at the empty glasses in front of her. "No," Lila slurred, blinking up at him. "I need peace... and pleasure tonight." She giggled, the alcohol clouding her judgment. The man's eyes gleamed with interest, and a sly smile crept onto his lips. "Mmm, I can give you that. In fact, I have something for you." He slid another drink across the bar towards her, his fingers brushing hers. "Here, try this. It'll help you feel even better." Lila took the drink, not thinking twice, and downed it quickly. "Where... where are we going?" she asked, her words beginning to slur more heavily. "Room 347 at the lodge down the street," the man said smoothly, his hand resting on the small of her back. "I promise, you'll have the best night of your life." As Lila stumbled out of the club with him, another man in a dark car watched from across the street, his sharp eyes narrowing as he saw the situation unfold. He stepped out of his car, his movements quick and purposeful. Within moments, he was at Lila's side, intercepting the man's arm just as he was about to lead her away. "Hey, what do you think you're doing?" the stranger demanded, his voice cold and commanding. The first man scowled. "Mind your own business, pal. She's with me." The newcomer didn't back down. "She's drunk, and you're clearly taking advantage of that. Back off." Without another word, he grabbed the drink from Lila's hand and tossed it