If there wasn't anything pressing, this phone was meant for texts only, never for calls.
Lena, gripped by a sudden panic, clutched her phone and dashed to the bathroom. She turned on the faucet, hoping the rush of water would drown out her conversation with the person on the other end. Silently, she held the phone, waiting with bated breath for the voice to speak.
A mechanical voice came through, "Why has the plan failed again?"
The tone was harsh, sinister, and reeked of frustration, causing Lena's body to tremble uncontrollably. "It's Oliver. He...he's different with Josefina. He's the one who foiled the kidnapping, saved her. Otherwise, how could a defenseless woman escape like that? She'd be scared to death."
"I don't want your excuses!"
Fear filled Lena's eyes as she coaxed in a hushed tone, "I'm sorry, please don't be mad."
"You'll be informed of the next plan. If you fail, I'll find someone else."
"Please! I'm begging you, don't do this."
The call ended abruptly. No one was on the other line. Lena sat on the floor, water from the sink spilling over and trickling down to her feet. The cold water snapped Lena back to reality. She quickly turned off the tap and gathered her thoughts.
The woman in the mirror had disheveled hair, a fierce gaze, and a pale complexion. Looking at her reflection, Lena hissed, "I will take back everything that's mine!"
...
Early next morning, Josefina received an important assignment. She was to inspect her property. Hattie and Garrett had gifted her a plethora of assets, from storefronts to companies.
Hattie wanted to join Josefina, to show the employees their new boss, but Josefina declined. "I should go alone. They don't know me, and it'll be easier to assess things." Josefina preferred working solo, to better spot any shortcomings.
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