Third POV
Under the cover of a dimly lit alley behind a run-down warehouse, Elijah nervously adjusted his coat collar, glancing around for any signs of trouble. His heart pounded in his chest, fear biting at him like a relentless predator.
The threat of Caesar’s wrath loomed large, and the recent confrontation at the police station had only intensified his anxiety. Caesar had proof of his illegal activities and corruption, a damning leverage that could ruin him.
A sleek black car pulled up, and the person behind the conspiracy stepped out, his frustration etched into every line of his face. He clearly hadn’t wanted to come, but Elijah’s blackmail had left him with no choice. They moved deeper into the shadows, far from prying eyes.
“This better be good. I’m risking everything by being here” The man hissed, his eyes narrowing.
“We have a problem. Caesar… he has evidence against me. If he decides to make a move, I’m finished. You promised me protection” His voice coming out hoarse.
The other man clenched his fists, anger flashing in his eyes.
“You think I don’t know that? I’m frustrated too! No matter what we throw at him, no matter how many plans we set into motion, he’s still on top. His legitimate businesses remain unscathed, and he still commands respect and fear”.
The man scowled, voice dripping with bitterness.
“It’s like the man is untouchable”.
They exchanged a look, both of them feeling the weight of their desperation. Neither of them knew how to topple the empire Caesar had built.
“It’s time to finish Caesar once and for all. No more games, no more waiting. He’s too powerful, too dangerous. We need to strike where it hurts most” Man’s voice was cold and unyielding.
“Take him out…and his family, too” He said with a chilling intensity.
Elijah’s eyes widened, fear rushing through him like ice. His throat went dry as he tried to formulate a response.
“You… you want me to kill Caesar’s family? Do you know what you’re asking? This could go horribly wrong. If we fail, he’ll hunt us down, make examples of us…â€He stammered, shaking his head.
The man’s gaze hardened, and he stepped closer, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper.
“I don’t care. Do you hear me? We are out of options. Either you do this, or I’ll make sure every skeleton in your closet is exposed”.
Elijah’s hands trembled, sweat beading on his forehead. The weight of the threat pressed heavily on his chest, and he could feel the noose tightening around his neck.
“But…you said we just have to… destroy his empire… no-not kill him” He stammered.
“Right now, do whatever I say or… your death will be news tomorrow” The man seethed.
Finally, he nodded, his voice barely whispering.
“Fine. I’ll… I’ll do it. But know that if this goes wrong, it’ll be the end of both of usâ€.
“Good. Make sure it doesn’t go wrong, then” The man smirked, satisfied and left a shivering Elijah in the dark alley.
Caesar
I was standing in my home office, hands clasped behind my back as I gazed out the large window. The afternoon sun cast golden light across the room, but my mind was elsewhere, consumed with thoughts of the future.
Since the board meeting a week ago, things had been relatively calm, though a sense of unease still lingered. Akim had kept a close eye on Elijah, yet nothing out of the ordinary had surfaced.
The soft creak of the door opening pulled me from my thoughts. My mother stepped into the room and approached me with a gentle smile but her eyes filled with concern.
“What’s on your mind, my son?†She asked softly.
“I’ve been thinking about Igor. With everything going on, the chaos and the danger, it makes me realize what’s truly important†I admitted, my voice quieter than usual.
I paused, a hint of vulnerability appearing in my eyes.
“When all of this is finished, I want to propose to him. I want to start a life with him…something real, something lasting”.
My mother’s expression lit up with joy, and she stepped forward to take my hands in hers.
“Oh, Caesar. That’s wonderful†She whispered, tears welling up in her eyes.
“I want to give him the life he deserves. But first, we have to finish this” My voice grew stronger, more resolute.
My mother squeezed my hands, her pride and love for me evident. Even my heart felt lighter, and for a brief moment, I allowed myself to dream of that future…a life filled with peace, love, and hope, shared with the person who meant everything to me.
Next minute, the door swung open and Akim stepped into the room, his usual composed demeanor now carrying an odd mix of surprise and forced calm.
“Akim, what is it?†I asked, my tone steady but edged with curiosity.
Akim swallowed, his gaze flicking between me and my mother. Finally, he spoke a single name…”Anton!”
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