Chapter 14

Genevieve strolled along the familiar street where her accounting firm was nestled, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows on the pavement. In one hand, she carried her heels, the delicate shoes dangling loosely by their straps, while the other cradled a warm cup of hazelnut latte, the steam curling gently upwards. Monday was looming, and with it, the day she was set to reveal her findings to the multi-million dollar corporation Charlotte had recently acquired. To say Charlotte was thrilled to learn that Genevieve had unraveled the mystery in less than twenty-four hours would be a serious understatement. In fact, Charlotte had immediately called the company to rearrange the presentation, eager to get everything underway sooner rather than later.As the entrance to her building came into view, Genevieve’s phone buzzed insistently in her pocket. After a brief, somewhat clumsy shuffle involving her bags, shoes, and coffee cup, she finally managed to answer, a smile spreading across her lips as her sister’s name flashed on the screen.“Hello,” Genevieve sang cheerfully. “How’s the honeymoon going? Are you back already?”“You promised!” Jada’s voice rang out, sharp and playful.Genevieve pulled the phone slightly away from her ear as she approached the door. Through the glass, she noticed a man standing inside, his presence immediately commanding attention. He was enormous, broad-shouldered like a fortress, his suit jacket stretched taut over arms that resembled tree trunks more than limbs. His deep brown eyes locked onto hers, holding her in place until she gave a small wave and gestured toward the door with a sincere expression. A smirk tugged at the corner of the man’s lips before he stepped forward and opened the door for her. She mouthed a quick “Thank you” and stepped inside the building’s cool, polished lobby.“Jada, what are you talking about?” Genevieve asked, glancing toward the group of men clustered near the elevator. They looked as intimidating as the man who had just held the door for her. She recalled that a detective agency occupied the floor above her firm. Maybe they were recruiting?“I mean the promise you made—not to go after Accardi,” Jada explained, her tone serious.