My headache pounding, reminding me of the sorrow and loss I was attempting to bear.

His presence aggravated the discomfort.

Standing inches away from him, his electric blue eyes glistened in the light from the bathroom light, making him appear even more dangerous.

His jaw clenches and his eyes narrow, as if he's attempting to assess me.

Our stares were so intense that I couldn't turn away since doing so would be a declaration of my loss.

After what feels like hours has passed, he brushes by me.

His boulder of a body colliding with mine, scraping my skin like sandpaper.

I shudder slightly, disguising the agony, and take a little breath in.

His presence serves as a reminder, reminding me of my training, and I clench my right hand while the other clutches my towel.

I could turn around right now, wanting to put him in a headlock and beat the shit out of him.

"What the hell are you doing here?" I ask coldly. "Jude lives here."

If he kicked him out, I wouldn't let him see tomorrow.

Within seconds, he turns around and stares me down, making me grip my towel tighter.

Water droplets hit my skin as his wet hair whipped around.

While steam was rising from his shower, my brain was ticking erratically.

Rafe scoffs,

"Jude doesn't live here, so pack up everything and get the fuck out of my sight," he says in a sharp tone.

He swings open the bathroom door, kicking it open with his foot, allowing chilly air to hit my skin.

The need bubbled within me, leading me to hit the wall next me, producing a loud noise.

My knuckles ache, yet adrenaline surges, making my feet feel heavy as I try to keep my cool.

"That doesn't sound like a yes to me," Rafe replies boldly. His footsteps booming through the home, his voice signaling that he was departing.

I close my eyes and bite my cheeks, inhaling and exhaling to calm myself.

I want to scream at him and punch him, making him pay for all he's done over the last several months.

I, on the other hand, do not budge.

I was no match for him.

At least, that's what I told myself.

I wasn't going to let probation get the best of me.

Rafe's POV:

Kiara's presence amplified the negative thoughts in my brain.

Someone like her could do that to me.

Making me rush back to those tones that eased my mind, being on my side, and giving me the upper hand.

The most I could do was strangle her ego.

However, it was insufficient for me.

She was as insignificant as a fucking fly.

Always flying about, never abandoning you.

I've come to terms with letting her pack; leaving her alone would pick up the pace and get the ball rolling.

I walk into my room and open the luggage on my bed.

I squirm at the traces my suitcase's wheels made on the clean duvet.

I was late and in a rush.

Noah called me a few minutes later, after the civilian had fled.

Targeting Justin at his boat party was too risky, but Noah informed me that Justin would be attending a Met Gala-style gathering tonight.

Yes, much like the Met Gala, but on Charleston's terms.

Extra security, familiar faces, and big men from all across the country.

As is customary, it is always masked with major names in attendance, a small dinner party if you will.

Because of the high level of security, I had to go as 'John Smith' tonight.

Having a typical name for a white man attending these kind of gatherings, so I'll fit right in.

I slipped on my boxers and put my phone in between my lips holding it, while reaching over to enter a code in the neighboring dresser.

The drawer opens, displaying stereotypical devices, some of which I was familiar with and others which I'd never be able to have.

I examine the sight of a freshly pressed suit hanging on the rack.

I reach up to get it, my eyes fixed on the costume, certain that I was going to fucking pull it off tonight.

I take the suit out of the suit cover, displaying a clean black suit that makes my fingertips tingle against the cloth.

My tongue protrudes slightly to the side of my mouth, causing me to bite down on my cheeks arrogantly.

The assignment would be finished tonight, and I wasn't going to allow anyone to get in the way of my goal.

I didn't have a date tonight, so I had a target on my back for the whole night.

Justin's men planned to form a perimeter around the event, like predators waiting for pandemonium to break out.

But I wasn't going to let his men ruin a good night.

I wasn't going to let my objective control my night, either.

A few beers were going to lighten the mood.

Perhaps lead me to another, wishing to forget the night as well, prompting us to let our desires take control for a night.

I cuff my suit links, craning my neck side to side, releasing stress for the evening ahead.

I wrap my fingers around a gun, the sensation thumping in my chest, deja vu infiltrating my consciousness and causing my breath to hitch.

Tonight was different.

I was doing everyone a favor since my mind was in the proper place this time.

I inspect the holster, counting the bullets.

3.

If necessary, I had three opportunities to take the shot.

Peterkin's face flashed across my mind, causing me to loosen my grasp on the trigger.

I would take it all back if I could.

I'd do that in a fucking heartbeat.

I wanted to tell myself that tonight would be the night I would repay Peterkin.

Taking down her most wanted, doing it for her.

But that scared me because no one would fucking believe me.

Everyone's story had me painted as the villain.

Even though I was doing all in my power to bring Peterkin's name to justice, it felt like doing everything in the world would never equate to obtaining any type of empathy in return.

In everyone's eyes, Rafe Cameron was a killer.

I clamp my fingers around the cufflinks, the thought making me swallow.

Perhaps that will change later this evening.

Kiara's POV:

"You can't fuck it up tonight, Kiara. Security is tight, but backup is in place; we have a couple personnel on the way to make sure no one gets in the way this time.

We've tagged the Civilian, who will also be present tonight. You're aware of the regulations; we don't leave witnesses. Jane, you have 48 hours to clean the scene." Barry explains in a professional tone.

I scrunch my brows; did he just call me Jane?

Reading my thoughts, "Jane Smith. That'll suffice for the time being. It's an in and out operation so the cover is pretty self-explanatory"

I groan,

another ruse to hide behind.

Isn't that why they selected me?

I've always been able to fucking pull this off.

I put on my earrings and avoided my reflection in the mirror, which was reminding me of the reality I was living.

I applied makeup in the style of the cover I was performing.

Jane Smith was a young woman I was posing as, and Barry provided me her profile.

I go through her status, my gaze returning to her photo every few seconds.

She had it all together.

Something I wish was true for me.

But we all know that's never the case.

The ones with the broadest smiles, the richest in the room, the ones who seem to have it all figured out, it's all a lie.

I got the opportunity to put myself in her shoes for the night, giving myself permission to be free.

"Jane Smith..." I mumble under my breath, but loud enough for Barry to hear.

"It's simple enough, but you might want to loosen up with the perimeter because it won't be as difficult to go around.

Jane here, and it appears that she has the necessary connections." I lied flawlessly.

The bitterness on my tongue, yet it was sweet like honey, sweet and simple to convey.

I'm feeling a strong urge.

That strong want to give up.

I can't keep masquerading as Jane Smith like an amateur.

I was willing to accept the risk because the fewer of our people we have there, the simpler it will be to close the case.

We drink the poison our thoughts pour for us and wonder why we're sick.

But that's how I handled things; it wasn't healthy, but it got the job done.

"You claim to enjoy rain, yet you open your umbrella nevertheless. You claim to enjoy the light, yet you've discovered a dark area. You claim to enjoy the breeze, but you keep your windows closed. This is why I feel scared when you tell me you love me."

I feel as though I'm always at odds with myself.

I'm being pushed and pulled in two separate directions.

I needed more time.

I needed to keep experiencing life in different ways, such as crossword puzzles, partying, drinking, and even identity theft.

None of those pathways qualified as a prospective job, but they made me feel closer to the life I desired.

I eventually look up, my reflection in the mirror catching my attention.

When I look in the mirror, it's as if I'm trying to persuade myself that what I'm going to do is the right thing to do.

But every time I turned my gaze away, I questioned myself, my life, and the way I was living it.

That's why I couldn't gaze for too long since I knew I'd come to the realization that the route I was on wasn't right for me.

But that was my mind urging me to give up. My mind was attempting to drag me away from this void. T

his never-ending cycle of sacrifices I was making. But the cycle was what kept me going.

I couldn't let go of the handlebars.

It was a freight train travelling at a consistent speed.

You are free to jump whenever you choose, but I had to see it through to the conclusion.

I saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and I knew if I jumped off, I'd never be able to get back on.

My purpose was dictated by how tightly I held on.

If I let go of the reins, everything will fall apart.

I enter a code and watch as the drawers open in an organized method.

Every device has a location, and it's all engineered to be within arm's reach.

I was only supposed to bring two weapons: a gun and a special blade.

something I was proficient at because of the training Barry provided.

I ran my hands over each device, feeling like a kid who had discovered the gold.

I come upon one device that captures my interest.

A ring that looked extremely familiar.

I take up the ring and scan it with my fingertips.

I'm gazing at it with bated breath because I'm curious.

I slide it onto my finger and feel the cool metal on my flesh.

"A tagging ring." Barry's speech is muffled by my earpiece.

I take a step back, mildly surprised that Barry was still online.

"Barry, you scared me. Please notify me the next time" I chuckle to myself as I say this.

"Don't get too smug, the place is linked up with disguised cameras," Barry responds.

I step back, looking around the room.

"Don't worry, only in the living room and kitchen area," Barry interjects.

I shook my head,

"You don't have faith in me? I'm not going to leave a trail everywhere," I begin to speak.

"No shit? We're quite sure you were tagged by that Civilian earlier, but we're pretty sure you aren't because nothing significant has occurred yet."

In return, I hum.

"Well, that's going to change tonight." I glance at my watch, which reads 9 p.m.

My phone vibrates with a notification, illuminating it.

I take out my phone to look for a message.

I re-adjust my outfit after swiping the message.

"Duty calls, my ride is on its way," I say confidently into the headset.

I make my way to the door, take the keys and place them in my handbag, and go out silently, taking care not to make a sound.

Rafe's POV:

Kiara's reflection catches my eye as she walks out of the apartment.

I button up my shirt and put on my blazer.

Her dress leads me to believe that I was going to see her tonight.

I ran my hands through my hair as I buttoned the last button; she had to be everywhere I went, and it was getting on my fucking nerves.

She was going to the Gala to pose, like she had been doing for the last month.

I wanted to call it quits on the mission right away; if she was going to be there, I might as well travel to the Bahamas for the weekend.

People like her never gave up, because sooner or later it will catch up to her, and I will be standing on the sidelines with a bucket of popcorn in my hands.

I was looking forward to see a Pogue lose their shit.

The trash was going to be taken out, so I stretched my arms, causing the suit to adapt to my pleasure.

A show was going to play out tonight, and the so-called star of the show was going to ruin the night by drawing attention to herself.

I suppose she sought attention, like a pathetic puppy, and it made sense.

Only a Pogue would venture out to make that kind of statement, and it was a circus that I enjoyed watching.

"fucking bitch."

There was no need for her to stand out tonight, nevertheless she walked into a scene, convinced that her role would satisfy.

Finessing the public.

I made a mental note to attend to the show before it ended.

It's always a good day when a Pogue humiliates themself.

Kiara's POV:

"Jane!"

A camera flashes to my right, causing me to swivel my head.

"Jane! Over here!", another photographer yells.

I was lucky not to have my cover exposed since Jane Smith hasn't been in the public eye in a long time because she was private.

It's been too long that doppelgängers appear in the news from time to time, but no one really notices, which is why I was happy, having similar traits to Jane, made it an easy entrance into the Gala.

The Gala was set up similarly to the Met Gala, which has televised red carpets each year.

Charleston was chosen to host one, with lesser-known faces but still a major event.

It was similar to Midsummers, but with higher profiles.

I knew I'd be on the local news because, for some reason, residents like to come and watch.

I thought it was highly disrespectful and unnecessary for individuals to organize such an event, let alone have it aired.

Some of the folks here I respected, while others were clearly industry plants from all around attempting to grab the bag via drug transportations.

I was given a makeup tutorial despite the fact that I did not wear makeup.

My makeup was made up in such a way that whenever the flash was turned on, it captured a different side of me.

A fresh appearance.

In the same way that you may be a versatile actor, you can appear like your character while not truly being them.

On that subject, let me walk you through what's going on here.

You have the outside of the event, coming with your date, or arriving alone to the red carpet.

The Met Gala highlighted fashion and how you presented your clothing, and while we weren't exactly 'the' Met Gala, we nevertheless took fashion seriously because Charleston is also recognized for their southern fashion, making a statement worn by Emma Watson at the last Met Gala.

The red carpet was the most talked-about pre-event.

The guests would walk in with their preferred charity, which I stood by here, the regulations being that if you went, you had to be supporting a charity.

I was representing the nonprofit Italian Charities of America.

Through cultural activities, events, and language classes, the organization helps to preserve and promote Italian American legacy, achievements, history, culture, and language.

They work hard to teach, connect, and celebrate our ancestral heritage in America.

Italian Charities of America also aspires to provide general services, activities, and programs for the benefit of the neighboring towns, Queens, and the larger New York City region.

Valentino was sponsoring the event, so I was dressed in a special Valentino gown, which was backless and a bit out of the norm for a public event because it was not shy with the cleavage.

My clothing was embellished with dazzling black spiderwebs, giving me the feminine impression of a strong lady.

When Barry informed me about the outfit, we both laughed since we were not into the atmosphere of high-profile events.

I'd prefer to have had a typical Midsummer with clothes in my price range, but wearing this dress felt like wearing the crown jewels.

During training, a psychologist came in and taught me Jane Smith's mannerisms.

After a day, I had perfected the mannerisms since Jane and I shared same hobbies, such as boxing.

She carried this grace with her wherever she went, illuminating a room, so I had to learn how to carry my presence with pride.

A little study helped me come to the conclusion that it would be best to understand everything I could about her before posing as a look alike.

It is preferable to be prepared than to try to discover a way out under pressure.

It felt like a project, but I took it seriously as I reminded myself why I was doing this assignment.

Back to the red carpet, which I was attempting to draw out for you as a mission impossible setting in Hollywood.

Ah! Back to where I was before the major event.

The fact that the red carpet was in the public eye meant that I had all eyes on me, which made the situation more difficult.

But before, I had a brief boxing session to clear my head.

Interviewers were to stop by and ask you questions as you walked the red carpet all the way to the main hall.

Four men would circle the perimeter from the entrance to the Main Hall, providing support if necessary.

The red carpet was mapped out by security, making it more difficult for me, once I got to the Main Hall in which I needed to blend in.

Once you've arrived to the Main Hall, you may disperse using the public restrooms, which are designed to feel like hotel facilities.

The hallways within the Main Hall, on the other hand, were outfitted with several cameras.

Barry was on it, because he was really skilled with technology, which explains why he is doing so well on the West Coast.

Barry was to configure the security cameras in such a way that, with the press of a button, an empty restroom would be replayed indefinitely.

The restroom was a safe haven, since I was to go there if danger arose.

Now we'll move on to the Main Hall.

You follow a route that leads to the Grand Hall.

The action would take place in the Grand Hall.

Six guys posed as guests, forming a perimeter around the interior, pumping adrenaline into me and increasing my confidence.

I was also keeping a low profile in the crowd, since the Civilian who allegedly tagged me would be there tonight.

The Grand Hall only had one exit, therefore the entire mission was an in-and-out operation. In this scene, there were no edits.

There will be no take five, simply one action and a cut scene at the conclusion.

I spent hours going through everything with Barry and the staff to get this case to be closed.

A couple days ago~ Flashback//

"Okay! People, pay attention: we only have one chance at this. There are no do-overs, no reruns, nothing. As a result, I need everyone to pay close attention." Nora speaks up, projecting her voice for those in the back to hear.

We were at the agency's headquarters in Charleston because Kildare Island would blow our cover because it was too small to carry out a modest operation like this.

Nora's eyes is fixed on me as she gestures to the white board with her index finger.

"Kiara here is going to step in, inside the operation's ozone layer, if you will, the danger zone." Nora uses hand motions to emphasize the significance of the Grand Hall.

Some oohs were audible, exposing the tension of a targeted plan.

I recline back in my chair, smiling.

Barry nudges me, reassuring me after I told him I was nervous.

"Oi, young lady, eyes up here, I won't repeat myself, love," Nora says with a snap of her fingers.

Nora interjects, her voice stern yet humorous. Nora was just a few years older than myself, but I came to know her well.

Her parents, who had worked for the FBI, had died, leaving Nora to subsist on her own with her younger brother.

That's how we met; I didn't lose my parents physically, but I did emotionally.

She accepted me like a mother and taught me to speak up for what was right.

We were a family of those who surrounded me. It seemed like a large foster home, complete with siblings and a family that genuinely cared about us.

I was one of the older people here, therefore I was on the veterans' wall.

We took our job seriously, but not so seriously that we lost ourselves within it.

We made time for our friends despite the fact that we had a lot on our plates.

But we still came together as a family, connecting to the hardships that pulled us all together as a team.

"This entire thing will be set up and timed to perfection so that it all comes together. The Charleston Gala is infamous for its tight security due to the presence of high-profile guests."

"Kiara,"

Nora says, pointing at me,

"Is also a target."

"I know she isn't, but the security guards who report to Hart are trained to recognize a familiar face when they see one."

I fold my arms and turn my head to the side, anxiously biting my cheeks.

"That is why our guys will be a distraction. Acting as security guards, since the Gala is so beautifully choreographed that everything will fall like dominoes."

I applaud Nora for taking on a career like this while yet being able to return home to her family.

I desired to be like her, never abandoning a team that had raised her.

I take a look around, wondering if I'll remember this team in the future.

I make it a point to never forget them since they are opening up to me and eager to assist me with my father.

Justin was the intended victim.

When we get a hold of Justin, we'll be one step closer to meeting the big man who manages this company behind closed doors.

Once we find him, I'll be able to release my father and others who have been under his spell.

Nora moves over to the board's end, pauses, takes a step back, and returns her index figure to the public restroom label.

"The toilets were supposed to be a safe refuge for individuals attempting to gain entry to the Gala. Security is well aware that the restroom is a haven for anyone looking to hide out. In such case, Barry"

Nora turns around to face Barry and me.

"Barry is to deliberately change the film such that it loops. Now that they know the restroom is being observed, the film is being closely scrutinized as well, but thankfully, we have an inside guy stationed in the computer room."

Barry frowns at Nora.

"You should have assigned me as an inside man instead of our guy, Nora. You know how Simon is, don't you?" Barry explains his disdain by scrunching his nose.

"But I'll give it to you, Simon has more experience with Galas," Barry admits, raising his hands in defeat.

While we were all seated down, Nora looked down at Barry.

"We've discussed this, Bare; why don't you let me do the talking?" Nora notes in a lethargic tone.

"Kiara will alert Simon once she has arrived at the Hall's entrance, giving the six of you the green light to close in on the perimeter." Nora says this, while glancing around the room at the six men posing as security guards.

"The game begins once she enters. People, we're about to enter an operation with both a hierarchy and elites.

Both of which the worlds intersect, resulting in a hierarchy to deal with later on. That in and of itself is a diversion from the other operations that are to take place. We must be the ruling team since we have spent the most time arranging this whole affair."

A few hums concur with what Nora is saying.

"Simon is our guy," one person says,

"but they've strengthened security at the Grand Hall's entrance, making it difficult for Kiara to signal Simon without seeming suspect."

Diana, with whom I had worked closely during training, states.

Nora narrows her eyes at Diana, as she mulls over what Diana had said.

"Thank you, Diana; I hadn't considered it. You're clearly moving closer to that step-up as you begin to ask serious questions."

I grin and nod in Diana's direction.

She returns the gesture.

"Barry, your dreams might just come true. In the meantime, I'm going to send Barry and Jeremiah to the Hall's security corridor.

I want both of you to closely watch the room; you will be equipped with the most gadgets because it is the most crucial room.

Now we'll go to the Grand Hall. Kiara will go in and chit chat here and there, as Jane is a talker at these occasions.

You will eventually make your way to the top table, where Justin and his men are seated.

There will be a lot of ladies there, but Jane's notoriety will win her a seat next to Justin before the Gala begins."

"Once she's in place, our guys will close in on the table, forming an 80-by-90-foot perimeter around you, Michael, and Rudy.

Lenon and Price will then create a 60 by 20 enclosing some of Justin's security to take a step away from the table, drawing attention in which all eyes are on Lenon and Price.

Once that happens, the tag we've installed in your jewelry will behave as a magnet.

Responding extremely effectively to the magnetic field around Justin's suit, which he picked for the Gala.

His father insisted on him showcasing the tiny firm that he feels is his philanthropy in 1,000 carat gold."

"Fuck," I murmur under my breath, referring to the shitload of jewelry I was going to tag.

"When you tag someone, you don't leave the scene just yet. When the performances begin, dessert will be provided. The lights are being reduced, preparing the security to deploy night vision.

Kiara's gown is engineered to outperform night vision. Causing her gown to seem yellow in the visual sunglasses, which are a thin coating on the glasses.

Barry is receiving one because, while the performance is going on, you will head into the Grand Hall, forming a 90 by 60 around the table.

Kiara, you will take Justin to the dance floor once we receive the indication that the lights have been dimmed.

That is where you will eventually be able to weave your way past the crowd and out the exit."

I bite my cheeks again as I glance down at the floor.

The strategy had been well planned to the point that it sounded flawless.

Too perfect.

There would be disruptions that made their way to the scene, but I wasn't going to allow that to happen.

We had narrowed our assessment down to the point where there was just a .1% possibility of the strategy backfiring.

However, once on the dance floor, improvisation would be my best bet.

Nora made certain that I took advantage of an improv lesson at the local theatre.

Making my probation easier since Mr. Hull encouraged me to engage with the community theater and school drama.

Everything seemed to be coming together, making probation a bit easier.

It was similar to finding credit within an assignment, making it an extra bonus to passing a class.

"The task isn't done yet. When you depart, the entryway is closely secured, with eyes on all doorways.

All doors are programmed to close and open at specific points, giving it the appearance of a jail.

I disagree with the notion, but welcome to the Charleston Gala, ladies and gentlemen.

Our outside security on the red carpet will make their way to the cameras that are casting a light towards the exits.

That is when the surveillance film would be repeated by many, thus with the advancement of technology, we are able to repel it to the point where it is so artistically seamless that it gives Kiara a full 2 minutes to escape."

"Finally, because the crowd is behind Kiara on a thirty-second mark,"

Nora looks down at her watch.

"A thirty-second mark, giving the impression that the Gala is coming to an end, allowing the guards, chauffeurs, and photographers to make their way towards their specific location in which they will meet the guests from the inside.

After the minute mark, Kiara will be able to slip past the photographers who are making their way up the stairs, as well as the Chauffeurs and dates who are forming a type of entourage around her and heading in the same direction as her.

And there you have it. That's when we head out for some beers and a round of poker."

We erupt in applause and rise up, eager to have a few drinks as a plan was about to unfold in a few days.

Nora raises her hand in the air to hush us.

"Not yet, I'm going to show you a brief slide show of the guards you need to know by face. These are the most essential ones.

They're on Justin's side, making sure he's taken care of. These guards all have a background, with some having worked for the FBI and others having served in the military.

That is why I chose you as a team as we prepare to enter the real world."

"Some of these males are recognizable to us because we have done background checks on them in the past.

However, because they are aware that they are being targeted, the majority of them have been practicing nonstop to ensure that they do not have a target on their backs once they enter the Grand Hall.

We outweigh them in terms of intellect, but they outnumber us in terms of physical training.

But that's why I'll have adequately prepared you all to carry out the plan.

As you are all aware, each device serves a purpose.

I would like you to provide me a report on each gadget later tonight so that I may report back to the engineers in time if any changes need to be made to them."

Nora bows, causing us to applaud once again.

I smirk, adrenaline settling within me and preparing to flow.

End of Flashback//

I grip Isaiah's arm, gazing him in the eyes while he stares down at me.

Our height disparity makes us stick out like any other pair here.

Isaiah asked me to be his date, and I consented almost as if luck were on my side.

I informed Nora about Isaiah since she had done a background check on him before permitting me to accompany him.

Because Isaiah lives in Charleston, having him as my date would be appropriate.

Isaiah flashes me a toothy grin, his white teeth evident through the outside lights that make it gleam.

I smirk at him,

"You're looking dapper. I have to say, you look great in this suit." I compliment him.

(Kie and Isaiah's attire)

As the mob surrounding us grew, we kept our voices low.

I made it a point to learn a breathing technique since it will help me be calm and less worried in the midst of the people.

I was used to crowds, but tonight was different.

Mainstream music began to blast over the speakers, prompting a few teenagers to dance.

Some were accompanied by their parents since they were there to represent their charity.

On the outside, family was permitted, but not on the inside.

The Gala was so well-organized that security checked your baggage.

My security guards were guarding the devices I took with me.

As soon as the doors to the Main Hall opened, the guards would pass by, quietly sneaking past and handing me everything I needed to use in the Grand Hall.

Isaiah guides us to the first stairs of where we were ordered to pose.

I lean on his arm for support as I strike a stance, one leg on the step above the red carpet's base.

I strike a glance over your shoulder position, which elicits a few whistles from the photographers.

Jane was a name I had to become accustomed to.

Surprisingly, Isaiah suspected I was playing a game.

I told him a narrative about how I was being set up to masquerade as Jane as I shook hands with the Gala's host.

He didn't ask any questions, simply laughing at my antics.

Isaiah got admission because his father was supposedly a member of the municipal council, giving him access to the Gala.

We giggle as he rolls his eyes at the Gala that his father forces him to attend every year.

His father was absent, leaving his son to carry the burden of representing the family name.

Because Isaiah didn't want to be here, I respected his bond with his father.

But when he informed me about it, I persuaded him to be my date.

We make our way to the tops of the stairs, the ground floor where the red carpet ends, and enter the Main Hall.

The majority of photographers were stationed at the entrance, where there was a large platform where attendees and notable visitors could stand in various parts against a white backdrop.

We make our way to one of the larger platforms, where a foundation of red catches my attention, empty but for individuals walking across the vast area to go to the larger mass of photographers.

The music was muffled, and I raised my head to meet Isaiah's gaze.

He gently moves me around to where we were told to pose.

My body rotates,

"I can be a better," piercing blue eyes lock my gaze,

"boyfriend than him." Rafe's eyes dart to Isaiah as he passes us by, the lyric of the song syncopated to the position of our encounter.

"Rafe Cameron is here?" Isaiah whispers, asking a question out loud, but coming out as a statement.

"Kooks always find a way in at these occasions," I respond, turning to face the photographers.

~

The devices were hidden beneath my gown, allowing me to wear it easily.

The men who passed me by, handed it to me so quickly that I had to do a double take to be sure I had the devices in my hands.

I touch up my makeup with blush on my cheeks.

I retouch my left cheek, adding a bit of additional blush to my scars which had blended into a crimson color.

"It's go time." Barry says through the earpiece.

I push open the restroom doors and make my way to the Grand Hall.

If you watched us from above, we appeared to be a pack approaching from various directions towards the Grand Hall in an orderly fashion.

The main dish was being served as I made my way to my assigned seat.

Rafe's POV:

I sat at a table in my assigned seat, facing the stage and a mile away from the exit.

"Okay, kid. Get the job done", Noah says via the earpiece.

I adjust my cufflinks and wrap my arm over the chair of a beautiful girl on my right.

"John Smith," I say, the girl then faces me, and shifts her position as she leans in closer.

The main course is being served, and I look up to see Justin and his security entourage circling his table.

My team and I devised a strategy in which I would go through once dessert was served.

I'd then carry on with the talk I was scheduled to have with him earlier today.

Kiara's POV:

I can't help but think about why I'm here, and the uncertainty of what may happen makes me bite my lower lip.

I take a look around, scrutinizing the visitors to divert my attention away from the impending events.

We've gone through the technique far too many times, and it's become a mental ritual that I've repeated numerous times.

The unlimited possibilities of genuine emotion being expanded after you have rehearsed your lines in a play, and it comes out spontaneously is truly beautiful.

The beauty of improv during a well-rehearsed scene was what I was looking forward to.

Because the main dish was light, time seemed to work in my favor.

I discreetly scoff at the attempt to over-display food, as the cooks here have decided that quality over quantity is the way to go.

It made sense in this situation because we were at a high-end Gala, where Caviar was marketed as a dinner in and of itself.

"The dessert is on the way," Nora expresses herself over the earpiece.

"I'm just walking in." Barry responds, and I have to strain my neck to see him in the distance.

I move towards the group of women that surround Justin on cue.

I fight back my sneer as I observe a group of women attempting to profit off a man who needs to confront his ego.

I fix my dress as I walk over, fanning out the fabric and softly toying with my ring.

I let my right hand fall to my side, covering the gun tied to the lace around my thigh with the gown.

If there was someone here who was going to shoot at me, I was going to use the gun as self-defense.

My blade was on the opposite side of the dress, so it was easy to get to in a matter of seconds.

I went to target practice for a week and quickly picked up the idea of it, allowing me to advance up the ranks.

We took our jobs very seriously since we wanted to project a professional image.

As I was about to grab the bull by the horns, Justin made eye contact with me, sending shivers down my spine.

He grins at me, attracting the attention of his entourage, which splits like the Red Sea as I approach him.

"Jane Smith, the pleasure is all mine. I was hoping to see you." Justin indicates for me to take a seat beside him.

The plan was proceeding according to plan.

"You know, Justin, I can't attend to any function without seeing you." My tone is soft as I respond.

I smile, allowing the innocent mask to take control.

I knew how to play this game and how to reverse it as well.

Rafe's POV:

My squad and I go closer to Justin's table, the security team quickly forming a 40 by 80.

We were incredibly skilled in carrying out this operation and ensuring that the plan went off without a hitch.

As far as rehearsals go, a number of women appeared to have gathered around Justin's table, and I planned to take advantage of the gathering to persuade my security to create a narrower perimeter around the women.

Some have recognized me, but as the plan unfolds, I avoid their stares.

Kiara's POV:

"The civilian is in close proximity to the counters. Make a step toward the table, Barry." Nora speaks in hushed tones, her voice faltering.

I bite my cheeks, fighting the impulse to glance up into the crowd and target the civilian.

Rafe's POV:

"Kid, the civilian has appeared on our radar; continue forward. Make your move. Their goal is Justin, and they'll get to him in a matter of seconds." Noah communicates.

I quickly crank up the pace.

Before a brawl breaks out, I weave my way through the mob, my weapon in hand.

Kiara's POV:

"Rudy, go."

I take Justin's hand in mine as Nora blurts out the instruction, and I notice Rudy ahead of me, his body blocking the Civilian.

I tried to look over the corner to see what was going to happen, but the packed environment made it difficult.

Rafe's POV:

A security guard appears and stops me dead in my tracks.

As the lights dim, I try to look over Justin as he is dragged to the dance floor by a girl, their retreating figures getting smaller and smaller into the crowd.

"Sir, I'll need you to step aside." The man says this as he stares me down.

"Do you know who I am?" I inquire as I assess his expression.

"Get lost fucker," he says, his eyes narrowing at me.

Before I can react, his body collides with mine, causing my revolver to fly from its holster and onto the dance floor.

A shriek erupts within seconds.

"Gun!"

When a woman yells, the crowd scatters in every direction.

"The civilian is just around the corner!" Make your way to the door!" Noah exclaims.

I try to thread my way through the mob, but Justin runs back my way, drawing my attention.

Kiara's POV:

I got into a cab after taking off my heels and instruct the driver to take me to the hotel where I was staying.

As the driver pulls away, my heart rate rises and I return my gaze to the crowd.

"Kiara, you may not have gotten him to talk, but the necklace picked up the magnetic force required to impose, so the plan wasn't fucked." Through the earpiece, Nora says.

I sigh as I slump back into the backseat.

Rafe's POV:

"I found something, Noah." The other end muffles what I say into the earpiece.

I inspect the ring with my fingers as I raise it to my eye level.

• • •

A/N: The content we are getting 😩

JD DAYYYYY 👑❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥