COVENANTS OF CHAOS

Chapter Two: A Calm Voice

Lucas’ grip on the phone tightened. “Who is this?”

"You are aware of my identity." The tone was steady, nearly casual, yet there was a sharpness to it that caused Lucas’ stomach to twist. "Silas Moretti."

Lucas gulped heavily. His mouth became parched. “What is it that you want?”

A quiet laugh came from the other side. "What is it that I *desire*?" Lucas, you’ve been avoiding me for months. What I desire is for you to settle what you owe. However, I consider myself a rational person. I understand you’re… facing difficulties.”

“I’ve got nothing,” Lucas replied rapidly, his heart pounding. "I'm putting forth my utmost effort."

"The most you can do isn't sufficient," Silas responded. “However, I’m in a giving mood this evening.” I believe we can come to an agreement. Why not drop by my office? "Let's engage in a brief conversation."

“Don’t make me send someone to fetch you,” Silas interrupted, his tone hardening. “You won’t like the alternative.”

The line went dead.

Lucas stared at the phone in his hand, his heart pounding. He knew where Silas’ office was. Everyone in the city did. The Moretti family practically owned the east side. But walking into their territory alone? That was a death sentence.

---

An hour later, Lucas stood outside a modern, glass-fronted structure that appeared incongruous in the dilapidated area. Raindrops fell from his hair while he fixated on the flickering neon sign above the entrance: *Moretti Enterprises*. It appeared to be just another genuine enterprise, but Lucas was aware of the truth.

He entered, his footwear making a squeaky noise on the shiny floor. A stout man dressed in a fitted suit was seated at the reception desk, his face expressionless. “What's your name?”

“Lucas Kane,” he murmured, his voice just above a whisper.

The man pushed a button on the table. "He's arrived."

Shortly after, a different man emerged—a big, formidable presence with a bald head and a scar extending down the side of his face. “Come with me.”

Lucas followed the instructions, feeling his stomach twist with each step. The man guided him to a private lift, and they ascended in quietness. As the doors swung open, Lucas discovered he was in a softly illuminated office. The room had walls filled with bookshelves and costly art, with a large desk occupying the center space.

Silas Moretti occupied the chair, his sleek suit and relaxed demeanor exuding power. He raised his gaze when Lucas walked in, a slight smile appearing on his face.

“Lucas Kane,” Silas remarked, indicating the chair positioned before him. "Take a seat."

“I’d rather stand,” Lucas replied, his voice tight.

Silas lifted an eyebrow. "Do as you please." He reclined in his seat, fingers steepled. "You're difficult to catch, Lucas." "I dislike that."

"I've had a lot on my plate."

"Occupied?" Silas echoed, his grin broadening. "Do you believe I am concerned with your justifications?" Your father had a significant debt to me, and after he passed away, that obligation didn’t simply disappear. You are in my debt, Lucas. "And I consistently gather."

"I possess nothing," Lucas stated, his voice breaking. "I'm just managing to survive as it stands."

Silas observed him for a brief moment, then leaned in. "I will present you with a proposal." "One that will eliminate your debt and spare your mother from... unfortunate outcomes."

Lucas’ fists clenched. “What kind of offer?”

Silas’ smile turned cold. “You’ll find out soon enough.”