Joey’s phone rang, cutting through the tense silence of the office like a knife. Everyone looked at him, and he could feel the sweat breaking out on his back.
Fumbling, he pulled the phone from his pocket – it was Mike on the other end. To answer or not to answer? Ignoring the call could mean missing critical information about Violette, but picking up felt like stepping into a minefield.
After a brief hesitation, Joey took a deep breath and answered. All eyes were on him.
“Joey, what was your boss’ reaction after watching the video?” Mike’s voice crackled through the speaker.
Joey glanced at Elijah, whose expression was as cold as ice. His piercing gaze was sharp enough to cut steel, and Joey could practically feel it slicing through him.
Clutching the phone, Joey made a beeline for the exit. His voice was a mix of irritation and anxiety. “Damn, Mike, you sure know how to ask a loaded question! What do you think his reaction was?”
Once out of earshot, Joey exhaled deeply. “Did you get a hold of Violette?”
“Yeah, I did.” Mike’s excitement was palpable, even though his tone deflated a bit. “And I’ve said it a million times – that woman in the video isn’t Violette.”
“She said it wasn’t her?” Joey’s voice was tight.
“Exactly! She claims someone’s impersonating her. You guys might not know Violette, but I do. She’s not the flirty type. Her life is work, kids, and medical books – that’s it.” Mike paused, remembering why he called. “So, what was your boss’ reaction?”
“He’s fuming,” Joey murmured. “Elijah didn’t want to believe it was her in the video. He trusts her, just like you. But, coincidentally, Brandon happened to be at the Caesar’s Palace a week ago and saw Violette getting cozy with another man. He swore he heard everything from outside her door.”
“Did he actually see anything?” Mike pressed.
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