The tension in Leo's office had barely dissipated from the intruder episode when Lia turned back to her computer, her mind made up. Her fingers flew over the keyboard, running through the financial records Marcus had left behind, connecting disparate pieces of information, and finding patterns she had hardly been daring enough to hope existed.
"This. This is it," Lia whispered, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and exhilaration. Columns of numbers, dates, and transactions aligned precisely, all indicating one definite path. "Leo. There is a person sabotaging the company from the inside. I can see the money traces back to Vanessa."
"Leo stepped behind her. "Show me," he whispered, his body filling the tiny space around her. He leaned in, his pungent aroma and body heat washing across her shoulder. "Leo's voice was dangerous but had a twist of something Lia couldn't quite place."
Lia held back for only a moment before nudging the accounts that were highlighted. 'Look, it's not random. They've been steadily draining the accounts, covering their trail, managing projects… but this particular pattern, this is new. I think they are starting something big, and quickly.'
The dark eyes raked the screen as if it were alive. "Impressive," he repeated softly, his face momentarily flashing with admiration. "You've done what most people in this place could only dream of accomplishing. This. This is what we needed."
Lia swallowed hard. "So, we can stop them?" she whispered, her voice shaking with anticipation and fear.
"Yes," Leo said, moving in, his fingers grazing hers as he indicated a particular file. The accidental touch shot a spark right through her. "However, we have to be cautious. Vanessa is not only powerful, but she's also very unstable. And now she realizes that we're on her tail."
Lia's chest constricted. "What's the plan, then?"
His gaze pinned hers, cold and commanding. "We strike first before they strike at us. And as for you, Lia, this is no longer just about the company's protection. This has become personal. I won't let anyone place you in harm's way again."
A chill ran down her spine—a combination of fear and the irresistible attraction she felt for him. Even before she could answer, she received an email notification on her mobile phone. She opened it and widened her eyes.
The message was straightforward, chilling, and direct:
"You're closer than you think. Next time, there won't be any warnings." Lia's breath caught in her throat, and she gazed up at Leo.