~LAYLA~
The words hit me like a physical blow. I staggered back, my hand flying to my mouth. "What?" I whispered. "What did you just say?"
Axel's face crumpled, and I could see pain etched in every line on his face. He ran his hands through his hair, leaving it dishevelled.
"Your father," he said. "Charles Watson. He destroyed my family."
"That's…," I said, shaking my head frantically. "My father… I know he's not perfect, but he… did he go that far?"
"Sit down, Layla. Please."
I remained standing, even though my legs were trembling. "Tell me. Tell me everything."
Axel sighed deeply, looking older than I'd ever seen him. "Your father and mine were childhood friends. They grew up together, went to the same schools, and dreamed of building an empire together. About forty years ago, they started a business partnership."
"What kind of business?"
