Chapter 27: The Investigator Appears

Over the next few days, an ominous figure appears around the office: a private investigator rumored to be working for Vasquez. People speculate he's vetting employees for the overseas branch. I suspect he's hunting for dirt on me and Elena.

One lunch break, I see him chatting with HR staff. The moment he spots me, he narrows his eyes, like he's memorizing my face. My stomach flips. He knows. Or at least suspects. I hurry away, pulse roaring in my ears.

That night, Elena texts: He's ramping up the pressure. I'm pretty sure that investigator is tailing me. We can't meet in public. I reply: Then we need a safe space. Another motel?

She only answers: I'll find a better plan. Wait for my signal.