Chapter 62

"Two million?" Emily Lowell's grip tightened around her phone, her knuckles turning white.

The man on the other end chuckled. "Does Miss Lowell find it too expensive?"

"This is blackmail," she hissed, glancing around cautiously.

"What choice do we have?" His tone was mocking. "The boys are short on cash lately. If we don't get paid, we might have to tell everyone how Miss Lowell hired thugs to kidnap her own sister—"

"Shut up!" Emily's face drained of color.

A lighter clicked through the receiver. He exhaled smoke. "Made up your mind?"

Emily bit her lip until it bled.

"Give me three days."

"Smart girl!" He laughed. "Always knew Miss Lowell was reasonable."

Her hands trembled after hanging up.

Taking deep breaths, she dialed another number.

"Chris..." Her voice instantly cracked with fake tears.

Christopher Lowell was on a filming break. "Em? What's wrong?"

"I..." She hesitated. "Can you lend me some money?"

"How much?"

"Two million." The words came out barely audible.

His brows furrowed. "Did Sophia do something again?"

"No..." Emily quickly denied. "It's personal."

"Stop covering for her." Chris scoffed. "That lunatic's been stirring trouble online. Should've known she'd target you."

When his assistant offered iced coffee, he waved it away impatiently.

"Send me your account details. I'll transfer it now."

A smirk flickered in Emily's eyes, though her voice quivered. "Thank you, Chris..."

"Don't mention it." He sighed. "Once I wrap this shoot, I'm dealing with Sophia."

The transfer notification chimed as Emily touched up her makeup.

Staring at her flawless reflection, she sent the payment.

"Money's sent. Keep your mouths shut."

The instant reply came: "Don't worry, Miss Lowell. We're professionals."

She slammed her phone screen dark.

Stage lights illuminated Sophia Laurent during her interview, radiant as always.

Emily's nails dug into her palms.

This bitch was why those gangsters had leverage over her.

Payback would come.