Chapter 28 —The Loan

Narrator:

Aylin took a deep breath before speaking, keeping her gaze fixed on him.

“Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Adler.”

Roman didn't react immediately, just watched her silently, one eyebrow slightly raised. Then he settled back into his chair with that studied calm that came so naturally to him.

“I suppose it must be something very urgent,” he murmured slowly, “considering you came here instead of waiting for me to arrive tonight.”

Aylin felt the heat rise to her face, but she didn't look away.

“Yes.”

Roman tilted his head slightly.

“Then tell me.”

He rose calmly, walked over to the glass bar, and picked up a bottle of whiskey. He poured some into a glass and swirled it between his fingers before glancing at it.

“Would you like some?”

“No, thank you,” she declined, keeping her hands clasped in her lap.

Roman gave her a half-smile before taking a slow sip of whiskey. Then he set the glass on the table, walked over to the desk, and leaned on the edge, directly across fr