CHAPTER 2

Laura Anthony

Our flight to Stockholm took approximately twenty hours, with a stopover in Lisbon. It was a very exhausting procedure, but necessary, as the company's contacts in Sweden were extremely reliable. There we found our collaborator and got our new documents. Passports, visas, IDs, all prepared for our new life in the United States. We took the private jet and faced another eight hours of flight. I was already getting bored just looking at the clouds. It wasn't that I didn't like the view, but the anticipation of getting to know my new life was greater than the natural beauty outside the window.

My uncle had told me that I would need to stay in New York for a long time, as the case was very complicated. So I didn't know when I would return to Brazil. Nothing held me back to my homeland except work. My family on my father's side was all from the Northeast and I had never met any of them. My mother's relatives were Americans. The relationship between the Anthonys and the Macedos was not pleasant. My father, Matias Macedo, was a very difficult person. I loved him despite our disagreements, but he was the type to cut ties with anyone who got in the way of his plans. And that's why he avoided contact with his family members after he married my mother, Eloise Anthony. According to my uncle, nobody approved the union between the two. He alone supported my mother's decision to share her life with an alcoholic. Not even my late grandparents accepted their daughter's marriage. Only Uncle Thomas remained in my life throughout my childhood. I only met my mother's American relatives when I first traveled to the United States. Fortunately, I was very well received by most, so it was like going to my second home.

When we arrived at the New York airport, we took a taxi that took us to the rented apartment in a condominium, close to Central Park. I had already been to the city twice, but I couldn't get used to those skyscrapers and all that beauty of the most famous park in the United States. It was a charm! The apartment was fully furnished. It had three bedrooms, a large living room with high ceilings, and a library that was a dream. Sara was elated when she saw her room. She threw herself down on the huge bed and dangled her arms and legs on the plush blanket, as if she were basking in the snow.

— What a beautiful apartment is this? And what a view! Wow! Thomas didn't skimp on anything— she concluded as she stepped onto the porch that overlooked the park.

—My uncle has ulterior motives in putting us in such a comfortable place. Don't think he's a fool— I snapped.

— Oh, stop! Everyone knows that he loves you and that you are like his daughter. Of course he will give you the best and the best. He can, my friend! – he concluded as he threw himself on the sofa.

—I know that, but you know I was reluctant to come here. I'm sure my uncle will do everything to make sure I don't give up on this mission.— I vented, throwing myself beside her.

—I don't understand why you didn't want to take this job. Look Laura, I'm not going to lie it was weird getting used to having a friend who is a bodyguard , but after I saw how good you are, I realized that this is your profession. You were born to do this.

—I am very happy to have you in my life. I trust you a lot,— I declared, dropping my head into his lap. I was exhausted.

— Thank you friend! I want you to know that I love you and I'll do anything to make you okay, okay?

—Okay,— I replied, yawning. My eyes were heavy and sore.

—So shall we get something to eat before unpacking? —Sara was on 220 volts. I don't know where that girl got so much energy from.

— Can we sleep just a little? — I whimpered.

—Nothing like that. We'll have plenty of time to sleep. At the moment I'm hungry. I saw a restaurant two blocks from here. Come on. And then we have to stop by a supermarket to stock up on our new home. She pushed me off her lap and started picking up our bags. Sometimes I wanted to kill my friend for being so jovially happy.

—Okay. Let me just let my uncle know that we arrived safely— I asked in a dejected voice.

I picked up my cell phone and dialed the number, approaching the huge living room window. The view of New York was truly breathtaking. When my uncle answered, I told him how the trip had gone and thanked him for the tasteful decoration.

—Glad you liked it. Enjoy the rest of the day to relax. I can only imagine how tiring the trip was

I would do that if it weren't for my friend 's twat who has a fucking fire, and is pissing me off to get out of the house and fill that defined maw with food. Do you think that's what I said? Of course not!

— You can , uncle. Sarah is exhausted. I think we'll get something to eat on the street and then come home and get some sleep. And what about the mission? When will I receive the reports?

— Don't worry about it for now. You will receive everything by email before the weekend. You will have a meeting with our client on Saturday. Prepare calmly.

— Okay. I'll wait for the documents.

—A kiss, my princess!

After I hung up the call I felt a strange hollowness in my stomach. Why so much mystery around that customer? I always had prior access to all mission reports. Why was my uncle so cautious this time? My senses have been screaming since I got off the plane. I didn't like feeling like this, not knowing where I was stepping. But since I had no choice but to wait, I decided to take his advice and relax.

Sara and I had lunch at the restaurant next to the apartment and then did some shopping. When I was already thinking that the huge double bed was going to debut, the naughty dragged me back to the street. We walked for hours, visiting the clothing stores in the surroundings. In the evening we went for a walk in Central Park. It was late September and autumn had just begun. The temperatures were very pleasant at that moment and we took the opportunity to sit on the lawn. The smell of weeds was familiar. I had to control myself not to pay mico and sleep right there . Sara was chattering nonstop and I ended up getting distracted, watching two children playing in the grass. I was startled when the message notification arrived.

“Hi Laura. Where are you? Thomas said you're on a mission. I stopped by your apartment and not even Sara answered me. Send news.”

I showed the message to my friend and snorted. I didn't understand why my uncle insisted that we not reveal our location to anyone. Only Sara, Matheus and he could know where we were. No photos on social media, no answering calls. It was all so mysterious. We occasionally took on secret missions where we needed to maintain complete secrecy about our actions, but never to the point of hiding even from Phoenix agents. If my uncle didn't even trust his employees, it was a sign that the mission was high up.

Phoenix Guardian had become a renowned agency in the midst of private security. We had millionaire clients, politicians, artists and entrepreneurs all over the world. Each agent underwent a thorough inspection before working with Uncle Thomas. His life was turned upside down. There couldn't be a behavioral flaw in the curriculum. Quality control was constant. I didn't know if something unusual was going on or if it was just my uncle's excessive care, but the fact was that we couldn't reveal our location to anyone. That whole mystery was getting on my nerves. Who would that singer be? And what serious threat was he receiving?

— Santiago doesn't let go of you , does he? — Sara mocked.

—He's a good friend, but I can't even tell him where we are.

—He doesn't want to be just your friend, I told you. It's obvious he's on all fours for you.— My friend rolled her eyes and lay down on the lawn.

— Of course not. We are just friends and co—workers. There's no room for relationships in my life, and you know it,— I snapped in a gruff voice.

—What I do know is that you're wasting time from your youth with this habit of hiding from life.— Sara sat down again, this time facing me. —Laura, it's over. You are now a beautiful, healthy, successful woman. Are you going to tell me that you don't dream of building a family?

—You know there's no room for a family in my life. Right now, my career is my priority.— I kept looking ahead, not looking at her. That conversation stressed me out.

—And when will the priority be you?— When you're old, sixty and can't have kids anymore?

—And who said I want children?— I looked at her raising an eyebrow.

—Your passionate look at those two kids up front told me everything.

I huffed and looked away across the lawn. Was I really that easy to read.

— Laura, I've known you for six years. You are my best friend and I want you to be happy. Don't let your past destroy your future. You can accomplish anything you want. It's your life and you're in control now. Nobody will hurt you. You are no longer a helpless child. He knows how to defend himself against anyone. Think about it!

I threw my head back and blinked a few times in an attempt to keep the tears from falling. As much as Sara wanted to help me, it was still very difficult to deal with the ghosts of the past. I wasn't ready to open up to a relationship. I didn't know what my reaction would be to any kind of touch. I've never been involved with anyone since the day I was rescued. I never let anyone near me again. Not even Santiago who, at times, tried to be more than a friend. The thought of a man touching me again was something that made me nauseous uncontrollably. Not all the psychologists and therapists in the world would be able to heal my wounds.

The week went by quickly, despite all the anticipation of meeting my new client. Unpacking and leaving the apartment our way took longer than we expected. Sara signed up for the course and I took it upon myself to do some in—depth research on New York. Maps, establishments, traffic, escape routes, I mapped the entire city to plan my actions once the report arrived. I wasn't good at planning my personal life, but I was great at organizing a mission. On Saturday, I was already restless, waiting for a response from my uncle and when I saw that nothing had reached my email, I decided to call him.

— Mr. Anthony. I haven't received the report yet. How are we going to do today? I asked in a ceremonious tone.

—Hi Princess! You don't have to call me that. We are alone. I was going to call you.—

— Sorry uncle, but I'm anxious to know who my client is. You didn't tell me names, or even where we're going to meet.— I was impatient.

—You will meet him today. You will receive a pouch at 6:00 pm. Be ready, undercover. Comfortable and discreet clothes. You already know the procedure. And Laura... I only trust you for this mission

— Can I ask you something?

—Of course, princess! You know you can ask me anything

—Do we have a leak on the Phoenix?

—I'm looking into this, honey! That's why I need you to stay in the shadows. Do not expose yourself at any time. In the pouch you will have all the information

— Okay !

Well, it was already clear that we had an informant at the agency. I knew my uncle too well to know he wouldn't investigate his team if he wasn't sure of the fault. I tried to organize myself for the night. By 6pm sharp I was ready. He wore high-waisted black pants , a white shirt with geometric stripes, and high-heeled boots. Long straight hair tied in a high bun, with a few strands loose. A few drops of perfume behind the ears and on the wrists... and that's it! She was dressed to kill! Just not!

I liked to dress up in plain clothes for missions. It could go unnoticed by anyone. I didn't consider myself an attractive, stylish woman , just an ordinary young woman with a traditional style. I was short and had an average build. Comfortable and discreet clothes were always my choices. Sara, on the other hand, was that spectacle of a woman. With an enviable body, she could abuse short dresses and tight pants. Everything went well with her, as she had a very high self—esteem, as well as a sexy and powerful style. And it was wearing a black blazer, with a red lace bodysuit underneath, that Sara entered the room inviting me to discover the New York night.

— No , friend! I'm waiting for the pouch to arrive so I can find out where the date is.

— No problem. We can have fun after this meeting. What do you think? —As always, she was animation personified.

—Let's wait for instructions before deciding,— I suggested.

I had no secrets from Sara. She knew everything I did and would eventually accompany me to places when I knew we wouldn't take any risks. Even though she was a fighter, I would never put her in a dangerous situation. And because my Uncle Thomas had always encouraged our friendship, I knew I could always trust her. He thought I should have more friends my age, but trust is hard to earn. And Sara had won not only my trust but my love. She was like a sister to me.

Fifteen minutes after the appointed time, the intercom rang. I walked down the elevator feeling my body tingle with curiosity. When I arrived at the reception a tall man dressed in black and sunglasses was waiting for me. I soon recognized him.

—Hello, Miss Anthony. Thomas asked me to give it to him.— He handed me a black briefcase, which I recognized as the agency's.

— Thank you Johnny ! If my uncle told you to come here, it's because he blindly trusts you.

— Yes ma'am! Do not worry! We will remain in the shadows. Have a great night.

I smiled as he left the building and I headed for the elevator, smoothing the handle of my suitcase with my thumb. I met Jonny and the other agents at headquarters in my second year of training. The atmosphere there was totally different from the branch in Brazil. It was more formal and quiet, while in Rio it felt like we were in a family. So it was very strange to think that there was a double agent among us. It was like being betrayed by a close relative.

I entered the apartment and put my suitcase on the table. I slid my hand over the lock and typed in the password my uncle had revealed before he left. When I opened it, I found an envelope with two reservations. Black Rum was the name of the place. I looked at Sara and showed her the entries.

— It looks like fate is plotting in your favor,— I announced, rolling my eyes.

— Um … meeting in a little bar? I loved it!

— Good! The client is a singer, it's nothing too surprising. But I imagined that in that first moment, the conversation would be in a more reserved place. But it's alright! Let's see on the bar's website, which band will be playing today — I proposed as I took out my cell phone.

—Nothing like that, cuteness !— Sara took the device from my hand and pulled me by the arm, just giving me time to grab my bag and reservations. —We are already very late. Look at the reserve. 7 pm We don't have time for that, I already called a car.

— Okay ! But what's all this hurry, you hothead?

When we got into the car, my cousin was chattering. She asked to borrow my cell phone as hers was running low on battery. She called Thomas and my jaw almost dropped when I heard what she said.

— Hi, Thomas! How are you? Missing me already, Vida? His voice was firm and velvety.

My friend was terrible. I had a crush on my uncle and I had no qualms about declaring it to the four winds. He had divorced, a few years ago, from Matheus's mother, and had never engaged in a relationship again. Sara hoped to win him over. She has always been interested in older men. He said he had no patience for the boyish insecurities of big guys. He preferred the serenity and style of more mature men. Except that my uncle was twenty—four years older than she was, and he'd already given clear signs that he saw her as a daughter. But Sara didn't give up.

—We're leaving now. But I wanted to ask a little favor. I don't think it's cool for Laura to be exposing herself around in someone else's cars, if you know what I mean. — At this point, my friend's voice was almost a whisper, so the driver wouldn't hear.

—Sara, hang up that phone! We are coming! I ordered with embarrassment when the driver looked in the rearview mirror. He certainly spoke Portuguese, because his face was mocking.

—That's exactly what I thought. See how perfect our tune is? Glad you've thought of everything. Kisses my life! I miss you so much.

The driver stopped in front of the bar door when my friend hung up and handed me the phone.

—What were you talking to him about? I asked, still not believing how she managed to be so sure of herself.

—Soon you will know! — Let's go, I'm looking forward to discovering this place. Too bad I can't post anything on my social media.

—Only you, Sara!— I laughed when my friend pouted. I was never one to show my life on the internet, but she posted from breakfast until bedtime. I knew she was making a huge sacrifice, but it was my uncle's condition that she could take the opportunity to be on this trip with me.

Only after we passed the receptionist, who directed us to our table, did I start to observe the decor. The bar was surprisingly spacious. With dark brick walls and intimate lighting that brought a classic and cozy atmosphere. The smell of the food was intoxicating.

— What a delightful place, my friend! I'm in love. Oh! If Thomas were here... It's just like him.

— Sarah, get out! There are so many cats here in New York. Forget him, I don't want you to keep creating false hopes. My uncle is very straight. You know he would never look at you any other way,— I said as I let my hair down, letting it fall over my shoulders.

— Wow, friend ! Sometimes your sincerity hurts, see? And besides, I love straight men. I am fascinated by challenges and one day I will conquer Thomas, or my name is not Sara de Almeida, future Sara de Almeida Anthony.

— Okay ! Whoever spoke is no longer here.— I surrendered.

—You should be keeping an eye on the kittens, you're not engaged. Enjoy, friend! Throw yourself on the dance floor.— She waved her arms in the air in an envious glee.

—I'm here for another reason and you know it very well. By the way, let me look at the evening's schedule and find out who this mysterious singer is.

When I put the phone close to the qr code , in the menu , I didn't even have time to look at the site. The hoarse, dominating voice entered my eardrums in an overwhelming way, driving the melody right between my legs. A shiver from head to toe made my body go numb. The lyrics and the voice were old acquaintances and when I turned my body towards the stage, I felt my heart miss a beat. Running his hands through his hair, in a back and forth motion , the singer's deep eyes found me in the crowd. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. There was just time to feel the breath go out and my voice escape in a whisper.

— What the fuck!