Chapter 207

Sebastian's frustration was a living thing, coiling around him like smoke. He paced the length of the penthouse, fingers raking through his hair.

Harrison's voice cut through the tension. "You're a global icon, Sebastian. Every decision you make is scrutinized. Think before you act."

Sebastian collapsed onto the leather couch, his jaw tight. "What's the point of all this fame if I can't even protect the people who matter?"

Isabella stepped forward, her voice gentle but urgent. "Regrets won't help now. If only we had connections in Crestwood—someone with power in both legal and underground circles."

Harrison stroked his chin. "If Damien Vaughn were here, his family's influence could resolve this in hours."

Someone murmured, "Lydia's family has money. Maybe they can intervene."

Harrison shook his head. "The Bennetts are new money. Their strength is in capital, not leverage. If Vivian's been taken, cash alone won't bring her back."

Sebastian slammed his fist into the couch cushion. For the first time, he hated his own pride—his refusal to court the elite. He'd built his career on talent, not favors.

Isabella's mind raced. Then, like lightning, it struck her—a name, a solution.

"I know someone," she blurted.

Harrison arched a brow. "Who?" His skepticism was palpable. Isabella wasn't exactly the type to rub shoulders with the powerful.

She hesitated. "It's... one of Vivian's friends."

Sebastian's eyes flashed with recognition. "Her best friend? Audrey Winslow? The Winslow heiress?"

"The Winslows?" Harrison's expression shifted. "You mean the family behind Winslow Global?"

Sebastian nodded. "Adrian Blackwood's fiancée—well, ex-fiancée. I saw her photo on his desk once. She's been studying in Janfort."

Harrison exhaled. "If it's the Winslows, we might have a chance. Go, Isabella. Now."

Isabella swallowed hard, then turned and bolted from the room.

Blackwood Group Headquarters

The taxi pulled away, leaving Isabella standing before the monolithic Blackwood Tower. Glass and steel stretched into the sky, a monument to power.

Her stomach twisted. What if Adrian refuses? What if he thinks I'm lying?

She'd never spoken to a man like him—a titan of industry, a force of nature. Now she was about to storm his fortress, begging for help.

Doubt clawed at her. But then she remembered Vivian's laughter, Sebastian's desperation.

Steeling herself, she pushed through the revolving doors.