“By the time the court decides who owns that land, Wyatt will be bankrupt.”

“His clients will walk away the moment the state opens an investigation.”

Wyatt took a step toward her.

“I will never sign anything for you,” he said.

“Then you’ve made your choice,” Melanie said.

She turned toward the door, her coat swirling around her ankles.

“Wait,” Marcus said.

Melanie paused, her hand on the brass doorknob.

She looked back over her shoulder, a triumphant gleam in her eyes.

“Are you ready to negotiate?” she asked.

Marcus reached for his phone on the desk.

He picked up the receiver and pressed a button.

“Detective Harper,” Marcus said into the receiver.

“She is in my office right now.”

“She just threatened to file false allegations unless we sign over corporate shares.”

Melanie’s face went completely white.

The silver pen slipped from her fingers, clattering loudly against the floor.

She lunged toward the desk, reaching for the phone.

“Hang that up!” she screamed.

Wyatt grabbed her arm, holding her back with ease.

“Let go of me!” she yelled, struggling against his grip.