Chapter 14
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Title: The Mask of Caitlin
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The Mysterious Sponsor
Leo paced in his office, scrolling through the latest updates on his company's partnerships. His assistant entered, handing him a folder with the newest sponsor details.
"Sir, this is from the new sponsor, Caitlin Thalapan. He's set to visit today for the contract signing," the assistant said.
Leo scanned the file, his brows furrowing. The name sounded unfamiliar, yet oddly unsettling.
"A new sponsor?" Leo questioned.
"Yes, he's the founder of Thalapan Enterprises. A massive player in the tech and real estate sectors," the assistant explained.
Leo nodded, though unease twisted in his gut.
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The Meeting
When Caitlin Thalapan walked into Leo's office, Leo froze.
The man was polished, wearing a sharp suit and carrying an air of authority that commanded attention. But it wasn't just his presence that stunned Leo.
It was the familiarity in his face—the soft smile, the piercing eyes.
It was Kai.
Leo quickly masked his shock, rising to greet him. "Welcome, Mr. Thalapan. It's a pleasure to have you here."
Kai—now Caitlin—extended his hand with a businesslike smile. "Thank you, Mr. Leone. I'm looking forward to our collaboration."
They exchanged pleasantries, but Leo's mind raced.
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The Contract
Kai opened his briefcase, pulling out the partnership contract. He placed it on Leo's desk, sliding it toward him.
"This outlines the terms of our collaboration. It's a simple agreement to move forward as allies," Kai said smoothly.
Leo hesitated, his gaze darting between the papers and Kai's calm expression.
"This is sudden," Leo said, his voice laced with suspicion. "We usually don't partner without thorough vetting."
Kai leaned closer, his tone playful yet firm. "Sometimes, a leap of faith is all it takes. Sign it, Leo."
Leo clenched his jaw but picked up the pen. Just as he was about to sign, he stopped.
He stood abruptly, grabbing Kai's wrist and pulling him into the adjacent meeting room.
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The Confrontation
The door slammed shut behind them.
"Why are you here?" Leo hissed, his grip on Kai's wrist tightening.
Kai smirked, unfazed. "I'm here for business, of course. Why else?"
"Don't play games with me," Leo snapped. "Why are you stalking me? What do you want?"
Kai's eyes glinted with amusement. "Stalking? That's a strong word. I'm simply… interested in our mutual growth."
Leo shoved him against the wall, his frustration boiling over. "How did you get this company? How did you even become Caitlin Thalapan?"
Kai's lips curved into a sly smile. "Oh, Leo. I've always been Caitlin. You just never asked the right questions."
Leo's breath hitched as Kai leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "But you seem very interested in me now. Why's that?"
Leo stepped back, his cheeks flushing with both anger and something he couldn't name.
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The Deal
Kai straightened his suit, brushing off invisible dust. "Now, if we're done with the interrogation, shall we proceed with the contract?"
Leo glared at him, his mind racing. "This isn't over."
Kai chuckled, his voice smooth and confident. "I wouldn't dream of it being over, Leo. This is just the beginning."
As they returned to the main office, Leo couldn't shake the feeling that he was stepping into a trap.
But for now, he signed the papers.
And the game began.
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