Page 48 of Merciless Billionaire's Savage Desire

Danny stopped dead in his tracks and slowly turned to face her, confusion and curiosity in his gaze.

“What did you just call me?”

"Uncle Danny," she said, taking a deep breath and leaning closer, whispering the words. "It’s me. I’m Annie!"

Danny’s eyes widened in shock. For a moment, he didn’t speak. Then, he waved his bodyguards away and quickly moved toward her, pushing them aside.

“You’re Annie? Are you serious?” he asked, his voice laced with disbelief as he took a step closer, eyes searching her face.

“Yes,” she said with a bright grin. “Hello.”

Danny’s face lit up, and without hesitation, he pulled her into a warm hug, his laughter echoing softly in the room.

“No wonder I kept thinking you looked just like your mom,” he said, pulling back to get another look at her. His eyes sparkled with emotion. “I was planning to visit your dad’s place to finally meet you, but I’ve been overseas. I only just got back today—and I couldn’t wait another second.”

“Thank you, Uncle,” Anya said softly, her heart swelling with gratitude. “You turned down such a big deal… all because of me. I really appreciate it.”

Danny frowned, but his smile remained warm. “You’re my child too. I’d never do anything to put down my dearest niece.”

Anya pressed her lips together, touched. She had never experienced this kind of unconditional love before—and now, ever since she reunited with the Carters, it had surrounded her from all sides.

“Uncle, could you please sign that deal?” she asked gently. “I’m working at his office and... I haven’t told Dante yet that I’m Annie. I just want to know if he likes me for who I am before I tell him everything.”

“Oh!” Danny nodded, clearly impressed. “Smart girl. Very smart. Of course we’ll sign the contract and close the deal. As long as you want it, it’s yours.”

Anya’s smile bloomed across her face.

Danny reached out and patted her cheek lovingly, his thumb brushing just below her eye. “I recognize that smile from when you were just a little girl,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “I’m so happy we found you again, Annie. It’s like a part of us came home.”

Anya’s throat tightened. “Thanks, Uncle,” she murmured, gripping his hand where it cupped her cheek. The warmth of it grounded her—loving, sincere. “Me too. But please... in front of Dante and the others, I’m Anya. Don’t forget, okay?”

Danny nodded immediately. “Got it. My lips are sealed.”

Back in the meeting room, time ticked by. When Anya didn’t return, Dante grew restless. He glanced at the door again and again, tension climbing his spine.

With a sharp breath, he finally stood. “Where the hell did that girl go?” he muttered under his breath, brushing past a server as he headed into the hallway. “I told her there was no damn need to convince them…”

He strode out through the corridor—only to freeze mid-step.

There she was.

Anya stood with Danny, and the older man was gently patting her cheek. The sight, so intimate and affectionate, made Dante stiffen.

His expression darkened immediately. ‘Why the hell is he touching her like that?’ At once, he stormed toward them

Seeing him approach, Anya quickly stepped back from Danny, keeping a respectful distance but still smiling.

“Everything alright?” Dante asked, his tone clipped, icy, his eyes fixed on Danny.

“Yes, everything’s fine,” Anya replied calmly, tilting her head slightly toward him. “Mr. Carter has agreed to sign the deal.”

Dante’s eyes shifted to her. Her smile instantly melted some of the tension in him. She looked relaxed, not uncomfortable. A hint of relief crossing his features.

Dante shifted his gaze to Danny. “Mr. Carter?”

Danny grinned, cool and composed. “Let’s sign the deal,” he said. “How about right now? Then we can relax and enjoy the evening.”

“Sure,” Dante replied, still cautious. “May I ask—what changed your mind?”

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