A hopeless look filled Billy's face just then. He shut his eyes and took a deep, long breath to calm his nerves. Yet, even when he reopened his eyes, he behaved humbly and dared not meet Darius' eyes.

Even though he was unwilling, he forced himself to speak politely. "Darius, half a million dollars may not be a big deal to you, but it means a lot to me—that's all my wealth."

His eyes narrowed with the most desperation he had ever shown toward Darius. Yet, his voice packed more of a snarl. He k