Exposed to the CEO Behind the Mafia Mask novel Chapter 481

Chapter 481: Chapter 77 Lila Takes Control

Lila’s POV

I watched the black sedan carrying that woman disappear around the corner, but my problems were far from over. Everyone from Thorne’s security team stood around the building entrance, eyes locked on me, waiting for my reaction. Thankfully, Zoe understood without me saying a word.

“Tiny One, are you going to handle this the way I would?” Zoe’s piercing gaze searched my face for any hint of uncertainty. She’d grasped my decision from the start. Since day one, Zoe had been more than just a friend within the Thorne organization—she was my confidant, my advisor, my surrogate big sister in this world of power plays and family politics.

“You know it, Zo,” I confirmed with unwavering resolve.

“Good! That’s what I wanted to hear!” She nodded approvingly, her expression sharp with the kind of satisfaction that came from knowing someone was about to get exactly what they deserved. “If you need anything—anything at all—just call and I’ll mobilize whatever resources you need faster than you can blink.” Zoe then turned to the others, clapping her hands with authority. “Alright, people, show’s over! Return to your posts. There’ll be updates tomorrow through proper channels.” She herded everyone away with her characteristic efficiency that had made her invaluable to the Thorne family’s operations. “Adler, did you arrive in your own vehicle?”

“Actually, I came with Daniel. He picked me up from headquarters. There’s a department car right there, though,” Adler explained, answering something I’d been wondering—if he arrived with Daniel, it meant Daniel hadn’t wanted to face that woman alone. Even a seasoned inspector from the Martinez family needed backup when dealing with his manipulative ex-wife.

“Forget the department car,” Zoe waved dismissively. “Come with Finn and me. We’ll drop you at headquarters and discuss strategy over coffee.” I knew Zoe wanted more than coffee—she wanted all the intelligence she could gather—but I didn’t mind. She’d compile a comprehensive report for me later anyway.

Everyone dispersed with quick acknowledgments as I entered the luxury high-rise. Daniel trailed behind me silently, his usual commanding presence diminished by guilt and uncertainty. I stopped at the concierge’s mahogany desk, my stance rigid with purpose.

“I need to review the security surveillance immediately,” I demanded, my voice carrying the authority I’d learned from watching Thorne family meetings.

“I apologize, Miss Sullivan, but I’m not authorized to provide access to those recordings,” the concierge replied, making me want to reach across the marble counter and remind him exactly whose building this was.

“Is that so? Fine.” I pulled out my phone, leaned against the counter, and sent a message to our building administrator. He appeared at the front desk shortly—the kind of response time that only came with serious financial backing. Daniel just watched me, silent and wary, probably realizing for the first time how effectively I could navigate power structures when necessary.

“Lila! How are you?” The administrator greeted me with his usual deference. Soren was a sharp middle-aged financial manager and former prosecutor whose discretion and efficiency had made him invaluable to residents who valued privacy above all else. We frequently encountered each other in the secured garage when I returned from law school.

“Hello, Soren. Sorry to disturb your Sunday, but this is urgent. I thought it better to contact you directly rather than having Daniel exercise his law enforcement authority,” I apologized, aware that even family connections had their limits and protocols.

“No inconvenience at all! That’s precisely what I’m here for. What assistance do you require?”

“An unauthorized individual gained access to my apartment today through deception and bribery. When I requested to review the security footage, the concierge denied access. I’m certain you understand the serious implications of this security breach,” I spoke firmly, certain of one thing—Daniel hadn’t authorized that woman’s entry.

“This is completely unacceptable, Lila! And for the record, all residents maintain full access rights to surveillance records concerning their property.” Soren shot a disapproving look at the concierge before ushering me into the private security office.

Daniel approached cautiously as we reviewed the digital recordings. The footage clearly showed Sasha offering a substantial cash payment to the concierge to gain building access. The hallway camera captured her using a key to unlock our apartment door. But how did she obtain a key? That was something Daniel needed to explain immediately. Before I could turn to question him, he spoke:

“Soren, what disciplinary measures will be implemented regarding this breach?”

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