TWENTY FOUR - Part 1

Exelle

I scanned the papers outlining the details of the ongoing project at EXellenne Royale. The estimated construction time was three and a half years.

'Two or three years, I think,' I pondered before gently placing the document that had occupied my attention on the desk before me. I allowed my eyes to quietly traverse the contents before redirecting my focus to something new in my line of sight.

Playing with the swivel chair beneath me, I cast a glance toward a bouquet of dahlias adorning the coffee table, centered amidst the sofa set. A bouquet comprised solely of dahlias. Their fragrance wafted through the air-conditioned office, akin to a stranger perched atop a table with flowers of contrasting hues.

"Betrayal."

I moistened my lips, lifting myself off the seat and moving towards the flowers. One of the meanings associated with this particular bloom was betrayal. It seemed Alexis was subtly warning me about his next move. Though not conveyed verbally, its message was clear. Des