CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHT - The Trap Is Set

Mason leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Who's Victor?" Isabella shuddered visibly. "He's... he's the leader of a sophisticated criminal organization. They specialize in high-stakes fraud, extortion, money laundering... you name it. Victor saw potential in me, took me under his wing. Before I knew it, I was in deep. Too deep to get out." Claire's mind was reeling. This new story seemed more plausible, more detailed than the last. But could she trust it? She glanced at Mason, seeing the doubt etched on his face. "So why come to us now?" Mason pressed. "Why risk exposing yourself?" Isabella squeezed Claire's hand, her eyes pleading. "Because I found out about Claire. About my real family. And for the first time in years, I saw a chance at a different life. But Victor... he found out. He saw an opportunity to exploit Claire and Mason's wealth. He ordered me to get close to you, to set you up for a big score." Claire gasped, pulling her hand away. "So this whole thing... it was jus