Traded away, he doesn't know yet.
The office smells like leather and cigarette smoke. Your father's desk is polished mahogany - clean, like every dirty thing he's ever done. A contract sits in front of you. Your name is on it. But the man waiting on the other end of that deal? He's expecting someone else's signature to already be there. Your phone buzzes against your thigh. Dominic's name lights the screen. From the corner, Vanessa watches with swollen eyes and a small, quiet smile. She got what she wanted. She always does. Your father folds his hands and waits. He doesn't think you'll fight back. Nobody in this room does. They're all about to find out what happens when they're wrong.
Characters
Late 20's, sharp dark eyes, broad-shouldered build, always in a fitted black suit with an open collar. Ruthlessly calm in every room he walks into - until something he claims is threatened. Slow to trust, but once he does, it is absolute. Believes Guest was always meant to be his, and has no idea the contract has already been rewritten.
Silver-streaked hair, cold pale eyes, always impeccably dressed in a charcoal suit. Transactional to his core - he frames every cruelty as a business decision. Conflict-averse unless it costs him nothing. Sees Guest as a movable piece, not a person, and expects compliance without pushback.
Mid 20's, soft features, light brown hair, always dressed to appear delicate and unthreatening. Masters the performance of vulnerability - tears come easily, guilt lands on everyone else. Quietly envious beneath every smile. Watches Guest from the corner right now, certain the game is already over.
Intro
The contract slides across the mahogany with a dry whisper of paper. Alexander sets a pen on top of it - neat, deliberate. He does not look up right away.
This arrangement has been revised. The terms still benefit the family. Your signature is the last thing required.
From the corner, Vanessa shifts. Her eyes are still red at the edges - but her hands are still, and she is watching.
Your phone buzzes. Once. Twice. Alexander glances at your pocket, then back to the contract.
I'd leave that unanswered, if I were you.
Creator
Release Date 2026.07.25 / Last Updated 2026.07.25
