Chapter 5: Shadows of Betrayal

The usually busy and dynamic atmosphere at Anugerah Langit Corporation's headquarters turned tense as a police car parked in the lot. Employees enjoying their lunch break stopped and stared at the vehicle with curiosity. Murmurs began to spread among them, creating an uneasy atmosphere.

Mr. Leo, the perfectionist Head Manager, now looked disheveled. He stood at the office entrance with handcuffs on, his face a mix of disbelief and anger. A young police officer speaking firmly tried to explain the situation to Leo.

"Mr. Leo, we have substantial evidence of alleged embezzlement within the company. We need to take you in for further investigation," said the officer, showing an official arrest warrant.

"Wait a minute! This is all a misunderstanding! I’ve worked here for years. You can’t just arrest me without clear evidence! I demand my lawyer and a suspension of this detention," Leo protested, his voice rising.

“Sorry, sir. We have a formal report from the company owner. We cannot suspend the detention until further investigation is completed. You may request that later at the station,” the officer replied, maintaining his firmness.

Reluctantly, Leo allowed himself to be taken away. As he passed through the office lobby, the employees watching could only whisper in shock at the unfolding events.

“This is crazy, isn’t it? Mr. Leo got arrested?” Rina asked her coworker, Andi.

“Who would’ve thought Mr. Darren would act this quickly? No one’s dared to touch Leo until now. He held so much power here,” Andi replied, his eyes wide with disbelief.

“If I were Leo, I would fight back! He shouldn’t let them take him away just like that,” Rina added.

“Yeah, but the report came straight from the company owner. Rumor has it Darren has solid evidence, and I’m sure others are involved. After Leo, who knows who’s next?” Andi said.

The tension slowly dissipated, leaving questions hanging in the air. Everyone couldn’t stop thinking about the consequences of this incident, particularly those working under Leo. Their worry grew stronger, fearing they might be implicated due to their close association with him.

At the security post, Darren, disguised as Kemal, kept a close watch on the situation. Occasionally, he glanced outside through the one-way glass, and at other times, he looked at his phone screen. He also monitored the scene via hidden CCTV cameras he had installed.

“Some of Leo’s subordinates seem involved. They look uneasy,” Darren muttered, watching his phone.

A notification beeped moments later. It was a message from Keisha.

“Brother Kemal, I’m scared Mr. Leo will find out about my involvement in exposing all this.”

Darren typed a reply, assuring her not to worry. No one would ever know it was her doing, especially since it was all on the direct orders of the company owner.

A few days earlier, Darren, disguised as Kemal, had asked Keisha to install software on her computer. Coincidentally, Keisha worked in the finance department, and her computer was connected to all the department’s systems. Using the software, Darren’s operative had successfully accessed and reviewed the real financial data known only to a select few.

“Son, when will you come home? Don’t you miss your father? He’s been asking about you. Oh, and by the way, Mr. Baron plans to visit your father. He also wants to meet you and introduce his daughter to you!”

“Yes, Mom, I’ll let you know. Darren is currently visiting several family owned branch companies. There are some matters I need to address!”

After chatting about his situation, Darren ended the call with his mother. The young man felt uneasy about her mention of Baron. In his confusion, Darren closed his eyes. Lying on the bed of his modestly rented apartment, he contemplated his next move.

“I can’t meet him. If he finds out who I really am, all my plans will be ruined,” he murmured, staring at the ceiling.

The following evening, Baron and his daughter, Nadine, visited Mr. Harison, Darren’s father. Harison, bedridden in his room, could only communicate through body gestures due to a stroke that had paralyzed part of his face.

Harison's residence felt gloomy, despite the brightly lit living room. Baron sat on a chair across from Harison’s bed, his expression wearing a sinister smile. Beside him, Mrs. Harison stood with a meaningful grin, observing their interaction.

“How are you, Mr. Harison?” Baron began, his voice dripping with insincerity. “I hope you’re not suffering too much in this condition.”

Harison frowned, his eyes narrowing at the sarcastic tone in Baron’s words. Slowly, he shook his head, signaling his disapproval.

Baron continued, “By the way, what about our previous plan? The agreement to arrange Nadine’s marriage to Darren. Isn’t that a promise we need to fulfill? I’m sure it’ll bring great benefits to all of us.”

Harison’s face tensed. Summoning all his strength, he uttered strained sounds, “Ah uh ah uh,” expressing his anger despite his inability to speak. Baron merely smirked, relishing the moment.

“What do you think, my dear?” Baron glanced at Mrs. Harison, who responded with a sly smile.

“Your husband is stubborn. I must admit, he was clever to bring Darren back and nearly ruin my plans.”

Harison’s chest tightened with rage. He wanted to speak, but his words were trapped in his throat. His face showed a mix of anger and worry.

Ignoring Harison’s expression, Baron raised his voice slightly, stepping closer to him. Gripping Harison’s neck, he tightened his hold, nearly choking him. “If you don’t agree to this marriage, I won’t just come after you; I’ll make sure your son suffers the same fate.”

Baron released his grip, leaving Harison gasping for air, his face nearly turning blue. As he caught his breath, his eyes reflected growing anxiety.

“So, what will it be, Mr. Harison?” Baron pressed on, his voice full of menace. “I think you know your options. This isn’t just about you it’s about your family’s safety.”

Mrs. Harison, who had been silent all along, finally spoke. “Harison, you know how ruthless I am, don’t you? I didn’t hesitate to take down my twin brother for my ambitions, so don’t think I’d hesitate to hurt your son.”

Her once elegant demeanor now turned vicious and terrifying. She repeatedly kicked Harison’s paralyzed legs, showing no mercy or pity for the man in his condition.

Baron smiled with satisfaction at her actions. He leaned in closer to Harison. “Listen, I’m not one to waste words. I only want everything to go as planned. If not, you and your son will face the consequences,” he said with a threatening tone.