Chapter 77

ALISHA POV

“Thanks, Nadia,” I whispered, gripping the small bag she handed me. “I don’t know how I’d be able to communicate with you without these.” I said as I collected the items from her.

Nadia nodded, her eyes darting nervously toward the tall, glass doors of Garrison Enterprises.

“You sure about this, Alisha? If they catch you…remember you will be in trouble, and always remember the rules of this game… I'm not involved in this because I will be paying you and so you can't point out your Boss even when you're caught.”

“They won’t,” I cut her off as I just didn't need any negative thoughts or vibe in my head right now as I try to sound more confident than I felt. “I’ve got this.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line as she handed over the phone and the tiny voice recorders. “Just be careful, okay? If anything goes wrong, get out of there immediately.”

“I will,” I promised, though the words felt hollow.

Nadia glanced around one last time before stepping back. “I need to leave before someone sees us together. Good luck.”

“Thanks.” I watched her disappear into the busy crowd on the sidewalk in the company as I was very sure she had parked her car outside Richard's company, her figure blending into the city’s chaos.

My heart raced as I stuffed the phone under my blouse, tucking it securely against my skin. The voice recorders went into my purse.

Oh yes she added so much voice recorder in the packets so it will make it easy for me to get to hear whatever Richard was doing in his office even when I'm not with him.

Taking a deep breath, I turned back toward the towering building. My shoes clicked against the polished floor as I hurried through the lobby to meet up with Richard who I'm very sure must be looking for me right now.

My pulse quickened when I spotted Richard near the entrance, his head moving sideways as though he was looking for someone.

I knew it! He was actually looking for me. Thank goodness I wasn't caught at all.

“There you are!” he said when his eyes landed on me. “Where were you?”

I plastered a sheepish smile on my face. “I… I got a bit lost. This place is huge.” I lied as that was the only thought that came to my head.

His expression softened, and he let out a small chuckle. “It can be confusing. Stick with me, and you’ll be fine.”

“Of course,” I said, forcing my voice to stay light.

And I wondered, so the mighty Richard Garrison could chuckle? Wow…maybe he isn't bad at all.

Richard turned and began walking toward the elevators, and I followed closely behind, my hands gripping my purse tightly. My mind raced with possibilities, each one more dangerous than the last.

We rode the elevator in silence, the faint hum of the machinery filling the small space. I could feel the weight of the phone against my chest, a constant reminder of the risk I was taking.

When we reached his office, Richard pushed open the heavy door and gestured for me to enter. “Make yourself comfortable,” he said, motioning toward the sleek, leather sofa.

“There’s wine in the fridge, or juice if you prefer. Help yourself to whatever you need.”

“Thanks, and of course I will make myself comfortable.” I murmured as I meant it in a sarcastic way, my eyes scanning the room.

I just couldn't wait for him to leave the office so I could start with my plan, should I say he was an obstacle to me if he was still in the room.

The office was spacious and meticulously organized. A large desk sat near the window, papers neatly stacked, and a laptop open but idle. Shelves lined the walls, filled with books and awards that spoke of his success.

“I’ll be back in a bit,I just need to meet my cabinet members for a brief meeting.” Richard said, stepping toward the door. “Just relax.”

“Okay,” I replied, my voice steady despite the nervous energy bubbling inside me.

As soon as the door clicked shut behind him, I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding. Alone at last.

I smiled to myself, the weight of the moment settling in. “Feel free, huh?” I muttered under my breath. “Of course, I’ll feel free.”

Walking over to the desk, I began my search. My eyes darted around the room, scanning for any signs of surveillance. If Richard was as meticulous as he seemed, there was a chance he’d have cameras hidden somewhere.

I moved carefully, inspecting every corner, every shelf, every possible hiding spot. My heart raced with every second that passed, the fear of being caught pressing heavily on me.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I was certain. There were no cameras.

Relief washed over me, and I couldn’t help but smile. “Perfect,” I whispered to myself.

But the smile didn’t last long. The weight of what I was about to do loomed over me, the risks more apparent than ever. I shook my head, pushing the doubts aside. This was my chance. My only chance.

As I stood there, the silence of the room enveloping me, a sudden noise from outside the door made me freeze. My heart leapt into my throat, and I strained to listen, every muscle in my body tense.

Was Richard coming back? Or was it someone else?

I didn’t move, didn’t breathe, waiting for the sound to come again.

And then…nothing.

The silence returned, but the unease lingered. I glanced around the room one last time, my mind racing with possibilities. Whatever happened next, I had to be ready.

Then I opened the door to Richard's office,as I snuck my head out and took a quick peek around to know if anyone was coming or was already at the door.

The game had only just begun.