She found herself back in Minna's treasure-filled lair. Minna sat there, all calm and collected, watching her every move.
"Alright then, let's get Mona on the line."
Minna smirked, clearly amused, eager to see how Eliza would maneuver through her web of deception. Eliza settled into a chair across from Minna and declared, "I am Mona."
Minna burst out laughing, her disbelief evident. "You honestly think you can pull one over on me that easily?"
Eliza didn't bother arguing. She simply dialed a number on her phone and handed it over to Minna. After the call, Minna's attitude shifted dramatically. She even circled Eliza a few times, trying to wrap her head around the fact that Eliza was indeed Mona.
"Well then, could you paint me a portrait of Chirpy?" Minna asked.
"And will you let Casper go if I do?"
Negotiations were underway, both sides weighing their options. Unexpectedly, Minna shot down the idea, "No way, but..."
Eliza raised an eyebrow. "But what?"
"...I can let you go for now, but you better make that portrait count." It was her final compromise.
Eliza thought it over. Refusing to leave without Casper might mean she'd never get out. Staying would only drag Casper down.
"Looks like I don't have much of a choice," Eliza conceded.
"Smart move, Ms. Eliza," Minna warned. "But don't try any funny business. I could have you back here in a heartbeat."
"With my guy still locked up with you, what could I possibly pull?" Eliza laid it all out. "You’ve got eyes on our place round the clock, don't you?"
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