The morning sunlight streamed into Louis’s office as he reviewed the latest updates from his contacts in the underworld. The new developments had confirmed what he feared: the threats against Daisy were far from over. Her career success had painted a target on her back, and Natalie’s name was starting to surface more frequently, albeit in whispers.
The quiet knock on his door pulled him from his thoughts. “Come in,” he called, setting the file aside.
Liam entered, his expression serious. “You called?”
Louis gestured for him to sit, pouring a glass of scotch for each of them. “We need to talk about Daisy,” he began.
Liam frowned, taking the offered glass but not drinking. “What’s wrong now?”
“Everything,” Louis said bluntly. “The threats are escalating. I have people looking into it, but I can’t do this alone. I need your help to keep her safe.”
Liam leaned back in his chair, studying Louis. “What’s your plan?”
“I’ve been reestablishing old connections,” Louis admitted, his tone grave. “Connections from my past.”
Liam’s brows furrowed. “You mean… the Mafia?”
Louis nodded. “It’s the only way to stay ahead of this. Whoever’s behind these attacks is operating at a level that conventional security can’t handle.”
Liam stared at him for a moment, then exhaled deeply. “I don’t like it. But if it keeps Daisy safe, I’m in. What do you need from me?”
“Information,” Louis said. “Your family’s influence still runs deep in certain circles. If there’s anything-anything-that ties these incidents back to someone specific, I need to know.”
Liam nodded slowly. “Consider it done. But Louis-if this goes sideways…”
“It won’t,” Louis cut him off. “Because I won’t let it.”
Across town, Daisy was immersed in her work. Her latest script was making waves in the industry, and offers from top producers were pouring in. She had also begun scouting talent for her new entertainment agency, determined to create a platform that celebrated genuine artistry.
Despite her growing success, a sense of unease lingered. She couldn’t ignore the subtle changes in Louis’s demeanor or the way Liam had been more protective than usual. They were hiding something from her-she was sure of it.
Still, she pushed those thoughts aside as she arrived at the set of her newest movie. The sprawling location was buzzing with activity, the cast and crew preparing for the next scene.
“Miss Croft!” a production assistant called, hurrying over. “We’ve made some adjustments to the stunt choreography. The director wants to discuss it with you.”
Daisy smiled. “Of course. Lead the way.”
As she walked toward the director, she couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching her.
In a dimly lit office, Natalie paced back and forth, her phone pressed to her ear. “I told you to handle it discreetly,” she hissed.
The voice on the other end was calm but firm. “You’re asking for too much, Natalie. The heat is on us already. If you keep pushing, it’s going to blow up in your face.”
Natalie clenched her fist. “I don’t care. Daisy Croft needs to be out of the picture. Do whatever it takes.”
She hung up, her chest heaving with frustration. Her once-meticulous plans were unraveling, and Ricci’s patience was wearing thin. If she didn’t deliver results soon, she risked losing everything-including her life.
That evening, as Daisy wrapped up her scenes for the day, she decided to stay back and review some footage. Most of the crew had left, leaving the set eerily quiet.
She was heading to her trailer when she heard footsteps behind her. Turning, she saw a man she didn’t recognize-a grip, perhaps, or an extra.
“Can I help you?” she asked, her tone cautious.
Before he could answer, a second man appeared from the shadows. Daisy’s heart raced as she realized they weren’t part of the crew.
“Miss Croft,” the first man said, a sinister smile on his face. “We have a message for you.”
Before she could react, the second man lunged at her. She fought back, kicking and screaming, but they quickly overpowered her.
Meanwhile, Louis’s contacts had tipped him off to a potential threat at Daisy’s set. Without hesitation, he boarded his private jet, determined to reach her before it was too late.
When he arrived at the location, the set was eerily dark and quiet. His heart pounded as he searched for her, his instincts screaming that something was wrong.
Then he heard it-a muffled cry coming from one of the trailers.
He bolted toward the sound, throwing the door open to find Daisy struggling against her captors.
“Get away from her!” he roared, charging at them.
The men turned, startled, but Louis was relentless. He fought with a fury born of fear and love, his training from years in the underworld coming back to him in full force.
Within minutes, the men were subdued, lying unconscious on the floor.
Louis turned to Daisy, who was trembling but unharmed. Without a word, he pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly.
“I’ve got you,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re safe now.”
Back at the hotel, Daisy sat on the edge of the bed, a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. Louis knelt in front of her, his hands gently holding hers.
“Daisy,” he began, his voice soft but firm. “I need you to tell me everything. Did you recognize them? Did they say anything?”
She shook her head, her eyes brimming with tears. “No… they just said they had a message.”
Louis’s jaw tightened. Whoever was behind this was escalating their attacks, and he was done playing defense.
As Daisy leaned into him, seeking comfort, he made a silent vow.
Whoever dared to threaten her would pay the price.