Two black SUVs moved through the city streets, synchronized, calculated. Inside one, Caldwell sat in the backseat, reviewing final arrangements.
His trusted associate, Donovan, spoke quietly.
"We have her schedule. The charity gala next week limited security, public access. That's our window."
Caldwell smiled coldly.
"No mistakes."
"We'll have decoys. Traffic manipulation. Communications jammed."
"And her guards?"
"We'll isolate them long enough."
Caldwell's gaze sharpened.
"If this works, Damien Lancaster will finally lose control."
Donovan hesitated.
"And if Lancaster retaliates?"
Caldwell's voice turned to ice.
"Then we ensure he's too broken to retaliate."
Meanwhile, Ariana sat in the penthouse lounge, the silence heavier than usual. She had noticed Damien's increasing secrecy.
He entered quietly, his gaze unreadable.
"You're hiding something from me again," she said softly.
Damien exhaled, stepping closer.
"I'm protecting you."
"I'm tired of being protected in the dark."
His voice dropped, calm but firm.
"There are pieces on this board you can't yet see. And when they move, they don't just aim for me they aim for you."
Ariana stared into his eyes.
"Then show me how to survive in your world."
For a moment, something flickered behind Damien's carefully guarded expression respect, perhaps even admiration.
But he said nothing.
The next morning, Mercer arrived with new intel.
"Caldwell's shifting assets again. And we intercepted communication confirming the gala plan."
Damien's jaw tightened.
"They're going for a public extraction."
"Yes."
Damien's mind raced.
"Double security. Invisible layers. I want every angle covered. If Caldwell makes his move"
Mercer interrupted.
"Sir, if I may this could be our opportunity to finally draw him out."
Damien's eyes narrowed dangerously.
"Set the trap."
In another location, Elise prepared Ariana.
"The gala will proceed as scheduled," she said calmly.
"But you'll follow our exact instructions. No deviations."
Ariana nodded, trying to steady her nerves.
"And if something happens?"
Elise offered a small, reassuring smile.
"Then Mr. Lancaster will ensure it never happens again."
Miles away, inside a dark room, the woman in the shadows watched her screens again.
"They're finally showing their hands," she whispered.
Her assistant stood behind her, silent.
The woman's eyes remained on Ariana's image.
"Soon, my dear... soon."
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