Emily Carter hated early mornings, but today she woke up half an hour before her alarm. The morning sun filtered through the blinds, casting whimsical patterns on the wall. The thirty-year-old woman stretched in bed and smiled—in a few hours, she would be flying toward her dream.

Two weeks on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. Two weeks away from the office, reports, and endless meetings. Two weeks with the one she loved more than life itself.

Her suitcase was packed the night before. Emily got out of bed and walked to the mirror. Her brown eyes looked back at her with a playful sparkle.

Long chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders in soft waves. A light tan from the salon in anticipation of the vacation made her even more attractive. You did it, Emily.

Now you deserve a little happiness, she whispered to her reflection. The phone on the nightstand vibrated. A message from Michael.

Good morning, darling. See you at the airport. Check-in at 10:30.

Can’t wait until we’re alone. Emily smiled. Every message from him made her heart beat faster.

Michael Thompson. Husband of her boss, Victoria. The man with whom she planned to spend her dream vacation.

Their affair started six months ago at a company party. Victoria was away on a business trip, and Michael came to the event alone. Tall, with piercing gray eyes and a charming smile, he immediately caught Emily’s attention.

She never thought she could fall for a married man. Especially her boss’s husband. But after a few glasses of champagne, they started talking, and Emily saw in him a kindred spirit, someone who truly understood her.

«I’m unhappy with her,» Michael confessed then. «We’ve been living like roommates for years.» Victoria thinks only about work, about her career.

«She doesn’t care about me. From that evening, everything spiraled.» Secret meetings after work, messages they deleted immediately, calls from work phones to leave no traces.

Emily knew she was doing wrong. At Apex Commerce Inc., where she had worked as a financial analyst for five years, Victoria Hayes was the CEO, her direct supervisor. Authoritative, ambitious, always impeccably dressed, the woman inspired awe in her subordinates.

No one dared contradict her or question her decisions. But love proved stronger than fear. When Michael suggested they go away together for two weeks to the Bahamas, Emily agreed without hesitation.

They had planned everything. Victoria was heading to an international conference in Tokyo. Two weeks of freedom.

Two weeks when they could stop hiding and not fear being exposed. Emily took a shower, put on a light summer dress, and applied makeup. For jewelry—only silver earrings, a birthday gift from Michael…Glancing at the clock, she realized it was time to leave. The taxi was already waiting outside. The drive to the airport took almost an hour.

Traffic during morning rush hour was typical for the big city. But even that couldn’t spoil Emily’s mood. She felt happier and freer than ever.

The airport was noisy and crowded. Emily found the right check-in counter and stopped, looking around for Michael. He wasn’t there yet.

She checked the time: 10:20. They still had time. The phone vibrated again.

This time, a call. «Hello,» Emily answered, expecting to hear Michael’s voice. «Emily Carter?» Came an unfamiliar woman’s voice on the line.

«This is Olivia from Victoria’s reception.» Emily tensed. «Not now.

Not a work call right before vacation. Yes, I’m listening. Victoria asked me to tell you that errors were found in the annual report.

She wants you to stay and check all the numbers again before you go on vacation. But… My flight is in three hours,» Emily said, confused. «I’m already at the airport.

Victoria said it’s very urgent. She’s counting on you.» Emily felt her insides tighten.

«It was so like Victoria to put work above everything and demand the same from subordinates. Tell Victoria that I can’t come back. I have a paid tour, and I’ve already checked in for the flight.

That was a lie.» Emily hadn’t checked in yet, but she couldn’t let work ruin her plans. «Okay, I’ll pass it on,» the secretary replied dryly and hung up.

Emily took a deep breath, trying to calm down. «Nothing will spoil her vacation. Not work, not Victoria.

She deserved this.» The phone rang again. «This time Michael.

Hi, she tried to make her voice sound cheerful and relaxed. Emily, we have a problem, Michael’s voice sounded tense.» Victoria suddenly canceled her trip to Tokyo.

She says she found some discrepancies in the reports and wants to handle it personally. Emily felt the ground slip away. «What do you mean?» «She canceled the trip.»

«She’s in the office?» «Yes, she’s there now.» «Emily, I think she suspects something.» She was asking strange questions about my plans for these two weeks.

«And what did you tell her?» «That I was going fishing with friends.» But she looked like she didn’t believe me. Emily closed her eyes.

Everything was crumbling. Their perfect plan—their long-awaited vacation. «What do we do?» «I don’t know.»

Despair was evident in Michael’s voice. «Maybe we should postpone the trip?» Emily felt a stab of disappointment. «We’ve waited so long for this, Michael.»

«Are we really going to back out at the last minute?» «Emily, if Victoria finds out about us…» «I just can’t risk it right now.» «A divorce from her would ruin me financially.» Emily was silent.

She knew Victoria was a very wealthy woman. Most of their joint property was in her name. Michael had often said he wanted to leave his wife but feared ending up with nothing.

«Okay,» Emily finally said. «But what about me?» «I’m already here, at the airport.» «Wait for me,» Michael replied.

«I’ll come, and we’ll discuss everything.» «When?» «In an hour.» «Maximum an hour and a half.»

«Right now, I have to meet with Victoria to avoid suspicion.» «Okay, I’ll wait,» Emily sighed and hung up. She was left alone in the middle of the noisy airport with her suitcase and shattered hopes.

Emily moved aside, found a free spot by the window, and sat down, watching planes take off. Each one carried someone’s dreams and plans. Her plane was supposed to depart in three hours, but now she wasn’t sure she’d be on board.

Half an hour passed, but Michael didn’t call back. Emily checked her phone several times, fearing she missed a call or message. Nothing.

She started to get nervous. What if Victoria really suspected something? What if their secret was out? Emily was so lost in thought that she didn’t notice a young woman stop next to her. She was dressed in a bright colorful skirt and a blouse with embroidery.

Dark curly hair was tied in a high bun, and around her neck hung many gold chains with coins. A beautiful girl sitting alone and looking sad. The stranger asked with a slight accent.

Emily looked up. Before her stood a young fortune teller. In airports, you could often encounter such people offering to read fortunes or just begging for money.

I’m waiting for a friend. Emily replied dryly, hoping the woman would leave. A friend? The fortune teller smiled, showing even white teeth.

Or a lover? Emily flinched. How could this woman guess? Excuse me, but I don’t… Don’t want to talk? The fortune teller interrupted her. I understand.

You have a secret. A big secret. She sat down next to Emily without asking permission.

Listen to me, beautiful. I see trouble in your eyes. Emily wanted to get up and leave, but something in the fortune teller’s words made her stay.

What trouble? The fortune teller took her hand. Her fingers were warm and dry. You’re flying with another woman’s husband, she said quietly.

You think you love him, but he’s leading you into a trap. Emily sharply pulled her hand away. Who are you? Who sent you? The fortune teller shook her head.

No one, beautiful. I just see what others don’t notice. And I see danger.

What danger? Despite her skepticism, Emily felt a chill run down her spine. Return your ticket, the fortune teller said firmly. Go back to work and look in your office.

There you’ll find answers. Emily felt a lump in her throat. Who are you? How do you know about my work? The fortune teller smiled mysteriously…Her career, her relationship, her hopes for the future—all turned to dust. She took out her phone and dialed Michael’s number. It rang, but he didn’t answer.

After the fifth ring, voicemail kicked in. Emily didn’t leave a message. What could she say? That Victoria knows everything? That their plans are ruined? That perhaps everything between them was just another amusement for him? Her gaze fell on the computer.

The password was changed, but maybe she could access the system another way. Emily had worked in IT before becoming a financial analyst and remembered some old skills. She took a flash drive from her purse, which she always carried just in case.

Inserting it into the USB port, Emily ran the recovery program. In a few minutes, she gained access to her computer, bypassing the standard authentication system. «At least that works,» Emily thought, looking at the desktop.

She opened her email, but found most messages deleted. It seemed Victoria or someone on her orders had already cleaned her account. Emily checked the network drives, the financial reports she’d worked on in recent months.

Everything looked normal, but Victoria’s words haunted her. «You didn’t notice the discrepancies? Numbers that don’t add up? What was she talking about?» Emily opened the folder with the reports Michael had shown her. She began carefully checking every number, every formula in the tables.

And then she saw it. Minor discrepancies in amounts. Write-offs not properly documented.

Funds transferred to accounts of companies not on the official supplier list. «Oh my God!» Emily whispered. This is financial fraud, a voice said behind her.

Emily turned sharply. Michael stood in the doorway. He looked exhausted, his tie loosened, despair on his face.

«Michael? What’s going on?» Emily stood up, unsure whether to be glad or afraid of his appearance. He entered the office and closed the door behind him. «Victoria is laundering money through the company,» he said quietly, approaching Emily.

For several years now. I found out by accident six months ago. Emily felt blood pounding in her temples.

«And you didn’t report it to the police? Didn’t go to the IRS?» Michael smiled bitterly. «With what evidence?» «Everything is set up so the trails lead to me. I’m listed as director of several shell companies.

My signature is on most documents. Victoria arranged everything perfectly—if it comes out, I’ll be the one to answer.» Emily looked at Michael, unable to believe what she heard.

It was all much more complicated and scarier than she initially thought. That’s why you asked me to check those reports. She asked.

You wanted me to discover the fraud? Michael nodded. I hoped your fresh eyes would spot what I missed. Some evidence pointing to Victoria, not me.

But you apparently didn’t see anything suspicious. I wasn’t looking, Emily admitted quietly. I just glanced at the overall numbers, without details.

Michael sighed heavily and sat in the chair opposite her. How long has she known about us? Emily asked, glancing at the camera in the corner. From the beginning, Michael replied.

She set it up. She wanted me to start an affair with you. Emily felt nausea rising in her throat.

What? You mean all this was her plan? Michael nodded. Victoria knew you worked in IT before, that you have skills that could be useful. She deliberately appointed you as financial analyst, gave you access to reports.

Then she instructed me to get close to you. Emily stared at him, not believing her ears. You used me? All this time, you were just following her orders? No.

Michael leaned forward. Yes, initially it was her plan. But then… Then I really fell in love with you, Emily.

I swear. Everything between us is real. Emily shook her head, feeling tears welling up.

How can I believe you now? After everything I’ve learned… Michael reached out, trying to touch her, but Emily pulled away. I understand how you feel, he said quietly. But right now, we need to think about how to get out of this situation.

Victoria is dangerous. She won’t stop until she destroys us both. Why did she even start all this? Emily asked.

Why launder money through the company? Victoria works for people you wouldn’t want to know, Michael replied. Apex Commerce Inc. is the perfect platform for legalizing illegally obtained funds. Large turnover—lots of international contracts, complex financial flows.

Perfect cover. Emily recalled how quickly the company had grown in recent years. How Victoria always found new clients and partners.

How some deals were closed at incredible speed and on surprisingly favorable terms. And what do we do now? she asked. We can’t just leave.

She won’t allow it. I have a plan, Michael replied. But I need your help.

He leaned closer and spoke almost in a whisper. For the last few months, I’ve been collecting evidence. Copies of documents, recordings of conversations, data on bank transfers.

Everything that can link the fraud directly to Victoria, not me. But it’s not enough. I need someone with your skills to access her personal computer.

Her computer? Emily shuddered. That’s impossible. It’s protected better than the Pentagon.

Not quite, Michael smiled. I have her passwords. I peeked when she entered them once.

But there’s two-factor authentication, and I need someone who can bypass it. Emily thought. Technically, it was possible.

She could create a script to intercept the authentication signal and give them temporary access. But the risk was huge. And how do we even get into her office? Emily asked.

She always locks it when she leaves. I have a copy of the key, Michael replied. Victoria doesn’t know about it.

I made it a long time ago, just in case. He looked at his watch. Victoria is at a meeting with investors right now.

She’ll be there for at least two hours. This is our chance. Emily hesitated.

It all sounded like a crazy plan from a crime movie. Hacking someone’s computer, stealing confidential information. If caught, prison was inevitable.

And then? she asked. Suppose we get the evidence. What next? We’ll turn it over to the authorities and the IRS, Michael replied.

Anonymously, of course. Let them deal with Victoria and her backers. And us? He took Emily’s hand.

We can start a new life. Together. As we planned.

Emily looked at him, unsure whether to believe his words. After everything she’d learned, trusting Michael was hard. But she had no choice.

Victoria had essentially fired her. And without a job and references, finding a new position would be tough. Besides, if they didn’t stop the fraud, who knows how it would end.

«Okay,» she finally said. «I’ll help you. But then we’ll part ways.

Forever.» Pain flashed in Michael’s eyes, but he nodded. «I understand.

You have every right to hate me after everything that’s happened. But right now, we need to act together. They worked out the plan.

Emily would create a program to bypass the two-factor authentication on Victoria’s computer. Michael would get her into the director’s office and keep watch so no one disturbed them. They’d copy all necessary files and leave unnoticed.

Emily opened her laptop and started writing the code. Her fingers flew over the keyboard. Despite years as a financial analyst, she hadn’t forgotten her programming skills.

«Done,» she said after half an hour, closing the laptop. «Now we just need to connect this to her computer and run it.» Michael nodded.

«Then let’s go.» The sooner we start, the better our chances before Victoria returns. They left Emily’s office and headed to the elevator.

The office was almost empty, only a few employees lingered on this Friday. No one paid attention to Emily and Michael walking down the hallway. Victoria’s office was on the floor above.

A huge room with panoramic windows overlooking the city. Michael took out the key and opened the door. Hurry, he whispered, letting Emily in first.

Victoria’s office looked like a design magazine cover. Minimalist furniture, modern art paintings on the walls, fresh flowers in vases. And not a single stray paper on the perfectly clean desk.

Emily approached the computer and turned it on. While the system loaded, she looked around for cameras. If Victoria installed surveillance in Emily’s office, surely there was something here too.

«Don’t worry,» Michael said, as if reading her thoughts. «No cameras here.» Victoria is too paranoid to let anyone watch her.

The computer loaded, prompting for a password. Michael leaned in and entered the combination of characters. The system accepted the password, but immediately requested a code from the two-factor authentication app.

«Your turn,» Michael said, stepping back. Emily took out the flash drive, connected it to the computer, and ran her program. The screen flickered for a second, then the system skipped the two-factor step and loaded the desktop.

«You’re a genius,» Michael smiled. «I just know how this security works,» Emily replied, not taking her eyes off the screen. «We have little time.»

«What exactly are we looking for?» «Documents on offshore companies.» «Anything related to international transfers.» «And Victoria’s personal correspondence with people from the list I’ll give you.»

He pulled a folded sheet of paper from his pocket and handed it to Emily. It was a list of names and companies, most of which she’d never heard of. Emily started the search.

She opened folder after folder, scanned files, copied anything that seemed important to the external drive Michael gave her. «Look,» she said, opening another document. «This is an agreement with some company in the Cayman Islands.

They supposedly provide consulting services, but the amounts. They’re huge. Michael came over and looked over her shoulder.

Exactly what we need. This is one of the main money-laundering schemes. Money goes offshore as payment for services, then returns through other companies as clean income.

Emily continued copying files. The more she found, the clearer the picture became. Apex Commerce Inc. was indeed used as a cover for large-scale financial fraud.

Millions of dollars passed through the company, settling in offshore accounts and returning through a complex system of transactions. This is insane, Emily whispered. How could she organize all this? «Victoria didn’t come up with it herself,» Michael replied.

Behind her are very influential people. Politicians, businessmen, possibly even criminal figures. She’s just the executor, though she gets her share.

Emily suddenly noticed a folder with an unusual name «Project Phoenix.» She opened it and found documents that looked even more suspicious. «What’s this?» she asked, showing Michael the screen.

He leaned in, scanning the files, and his face changed. «Oh my God,» he whispered, «this is worse than I thought.» She’s planning to liquidate the company.

Withdraw all assets, bankrupt Apex Commerce Inc., and disappear. When? Emily asked, feeling a chill inside. Michael opened one of the documents.

Judging by this timeline, in two weeks. Everything is ready. Money will be withdrawn through shell firms, documents forged, and the blame for bankruptcy is planned to be pinned on… He trailed off on me.

Emily couldn’t believe what she heard. That’s why she reacted so calmly to our affair. That’s why no scandal.

She used it as another piece of evidence against you. Michael nodded. Probably.

Imagine, the CEO’s husband, having an affair with an employee, suddenly involved in financial fraud and company bankruptcy. Perfect scapegoat. He looked at Emily.

You’re on that list too. They plan to accuse us both. Your signature is on several key documents related to financial reports.

Emily recalled all the papers she’d signed in recent months. She never read them too carefully, trusting Victoria and the legal department. We need to copy all this, she said decisively.

And find her correspondence too. If she discussed these plans with someone, it’ll be direct evidence. They continued the search.

Michael found a folder with Victoria’s personal correspondence and started scanning emails, while Emily studied the financial documents. «Here,» he suddenly said. «Correspondence with some Alex Sidorov.

He mentions Project Phoenix and discusses details of asset withdrawal. And here it directly says how to pin it all on me and you.» Emily looked at the screen…He ended the call and turned to Emily. Meeting tomorrow morning. Paul is an investigative journalist working for an independent publication.

We’ll give him all the documents, and he’ll make the story. And then? Emily asked. What about us? Michael sat next to her on the couch.

Then we’ll disappear. I have some savings Victoria doesn’t control. We can leave the country, start a new life somewhere they won’t find us.

We? Emily looked at him. You still think we’ll be together after everything that’s happened. Pain flashed in Michael’s eyes.

I understand your feelings, Emily. I deceived you, used you. But my feelings for you are real.

I really love you. Emily shook her head. I don’t know who or what to believe now.

Everything I thought was true turned out to be a lie. My job, our relationship, even my damn vacation. All part of some big game where I was just a pawn.

Michael wanted to say something, but Emily raised her hand, stopping him. Let’s deal with what’s happening first. Give the evidence, ensure our safety.

And then we’ll decide what to do next. Separately or together? He nodded, accepting her decision. You’re right.

Right now, the main thing is to survive and get the truth out. The rest can wait. Emily stood up from the couch.

I want to take a shower and rest a bit. Today was too long a day. Of course, Michael pointed to the door on the right.

Bathroom’s there. I’ll see what I can make for dinner. Emily went into the bathroom, locked the door, and leaned against it with her back.

Only now, alone, did she let the tears flow down her cheeks. Everything collapsed. Her career, her relationship, her plans for the future.

All turned to ruins. But somewhere deep inside, hope flickered. Perhaps something new and better would emerge from this chaos.

Perhaps through all these trials, she’d find her true path. Emily washed her face with warm water, wiping away tears and makeup. The mirror reflected a tired face with red eyes.

But in those eyes, there was no longer despair, only determination. «I’ll manage,» she said to her reflection. «Whatever happens next, I’ll manage.»

The next morning started for Emily with the smell of freshly brewed coffee. She opened her eyes and didn’t immediately realize where she was. Unfamiliar room, unfamiliar bed.

Then memory returned—escape, chase, friend’s apartment. Emily sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes. She felt broken, despite sleeping almost 10 hours.

Too many emotions, too much stress. She got up and left the bedroom. Michael was in the kitchen, preparing breakfast.

«Good morning,» he said, seeing Emily. «How did you sleep?» «Not bad, considering the circumstances,» she replied, sitting at the table. «What time is it?» «Eight thirty.»

«We still have time before the meeting with Paul.» Michael placed a cup of coffee and a plate with an omelet in front of her. «Eat, you need strength.»

Emily nodded and started eating. Only now did she realize how hungry she was. Yesterday, she skipped dinner, saying she just wanted to go to bed.

«Do we have a plan?» she asked, sipping coffee. «What will we do after the meeting with the journalist?» Michael sat opposite her with a cup in hand. «I thought about it all night.

We need to disappear for a while. I have contacts abroad who can help. But first, get out of the city unnoticed.

Airports and train stations are probably under surveillance,» Emily noted. «Victoria knows our passport details, can track bookings.» Michael nodded.

«Exactly. So we’ll drive.» «Alex has an old Ford in the garage.

No one will look for us in that car.» Emily pondered. The plan sounded risky, but they had no other options.

«And documents?» she asked. «The external drive with files?» «All with me.» Michael patted his shirt pocket.

«I don’t part with it for a minute.» They finished breakfast and started getting ready. Emily changed into clothes she found in the closet—apparently belonging to Alex’s girlfriend.

The jeans were a bit big, the T-shirt too bright, but she had no choice. Her own clothes, an elegant dress for vacation, wouldn’t suit a fugitive. At nine thirty, they left the apartment.

Michael was tense, constantly looking around. They went down to the underground garage, where the old silver Ford stood. «Here’s our transport,» Michael said, unlocking the door with the key.

«Not a Ferrari, of course, but it’ll do the job.» They got in the car and drove out of the garage. The cafe where the meeting with the journalist was set was across the city.

«Do you think Victoria has reported to the police?» Emily asked, looking out the window at passing buildings. «Unlikely,» Michael replied, focusing on the road. «Too dangerous for her.

The police would start asking questions, digging into information. Most likely, she’ll use her connections to find us unofficially.» Emily shuddered, imagining what unofficial methods Victoria could use.

The people behind her clearly didn’t shy away from any means. They reached the cafe ten minutes before the appointed time. It was a small place in an old neighborhood, far from office centers and tourist routes.

Perfect spot for a secret meeting. «Wait here,» Michael said, parking the car in an alley behind the cafe. «I’ll check if Paul is there.»

He got out of the car and headed to the cafe entrance. Emily stayed sitting, nervously tapping her fingers on her knee. Dozens of thoughts swirled in her head.

What if the meeting with the journalist is a trap? What if Paul works for the same people as Victoria? What if… Her thoughts were interrupted by Michael returning after five minutes. «Paul’s inside,» he said. «All clear, no suspicious people.

Come on, they entered the cafe together.» At this hour, there were few patrons—a couple of elderly men playing chess in the corner, a young woman with a laptop by the window, and a middle-aged man at a table in the back. He raised his hand, greeting Michael.

«This is Paul,» Michael whispered to Emily, and they headed to the table. Paul turned out to be a sturdy man in his forties with attentive gray eyes and early gray in his dark hair. He stood when they approached and shook hands first with Michael, then Emily.

«Nice to meet you,» he said, shaking Emily’s hand. They sat at the table. Paul looked calm, but tension showed in his eyes.

«So,» he said, lowering his voice. Michael mentioned you have serious information. Michael nodded and pulled the external drive from his pocket.

Here is evidence of financial fraud at Apex Commerce Inc. Money laundering, document forgery, preparing for deliberate bankruptcy. Paul whistled.

Serious accusations. «Do you have specific documents confirming this?» «All on it,» Michael replied. Financial reports, management correspondence, details of withdrawal schemes.

«Everything needed for an investigation.» Paul took the drive and hid it in his inner jacket pocket. «I’ll study the materials and get back to you.

If it checks out, we’ll publish the investigation in the coming days.» «We don’t have days,» Emily objected. «They’re hunting us.

And as soon as Victoria realizes we have evidence, she’ll do everything to stop us.» Paul looked at her attentively. «I understand your urgency, but journalistic investigation takes time.

I need to verify all facts, find confirmations from independent sources. Otherwise, the material won’t hold weight. How much time do you need?» Michael asked.

«Minimum two-three days, if the information is as convincing as you say.» Michael and Emily exchanged glances. «Three days is a long time.

Too long, given our situation.» «Okay,» Michael finally said. «Three days.

But no more. And we need a place to wait this out safely.» Paul thought.

«I have a cabin outside the city. Quiet, few neighbors. No one will look for you in such a remote spot.»

«Sounds good,» Michael nodded. «How do we get there?» Paul took out a notebook, wrote the address, and drew a rough map. «It’s a two-hour drive from the city.

Road’s not the best, but you’ll make it by car. Keys under the stone by the porch, second from the right of the steps.» He tore off the sheet and handed it to Michael.

«Be careful.» Michael pocketed the paper. «Thanks, Paul.»

«We’ll wait for your call.» They stood from the table. Paul shook their hands goodbye.

«Good luck,» he said. «And don’t worry. Truth always finds a way.»

They left the cafe and quickly returned to the car. Emily felt a bit calmer after meeting the journalist. At least now they had a plan and a place to hide.

Michael started the car, and they drove onto the road leading out of the city. «Do you think we can trust him?» Emily asked when they hit the highway. Michael focused on the road…«Thank you,» she said to the lawyer. «For the information and help.» «No need to thank,» Theresa replied, standing.

«I’m doing my job.» And between us, she lowered her voice. «You acted very bravely.»

Not everyone would dare stand against the system Victoria and her backers created. She said goodbye and left, leaving Emily with new thoughts and a sense of relief. Perhaps everything would turn out for the better.

Perhaps truth would prevail after all. Emily spent the night in the cell, but no longer in despair, but in anticipation. In the morning, they came for her and led her to Agent Smith’s office.

Michael was already there, a bit gaunt, with stubble on his face, but clear eyes and a smile. «Emily!» He stepped toward her but stopped, not daring to hug. «Are you okay?» «Yes,» she nodded.

«A lawyer came to me,» she told about the situation. Smith, watching their meeting, cleared his throat to get attention. «So,» he said in an official tone, «in light of new circumstances and evidence provided by the FBI’s Economic Crimes Unit, charges against both of you are dropped.

You’re free, but must remain in the city until the investigation and trial end.» He handed them documents. «Sign here.

This confirms you’re aware of the decision and agree not to leave the city. Emily and Michael signed the papers. You can get your things from the duty officer,» Smith added.

«And yes, someone’s waiting for you in reception.» Introduced himself as Paul O’Brien. Leaving the agent’s office, they indeed saw Paul—or now O’Brien.

He looked completely different from their last meeting. In a strict suit, clean-shaven, with the confident, calm gaze of a professional. Emily, Michael, he nodded to them.

«Glad to see you free. I apologize for the necessary secrecy and temporary inconvenience.» «Inconvenience?» Emily couldn’t hold back indignation.

«You call arrest and a night in a cell inconvenience.» Paul looked at her with understanding. «I know it was tough.

But believe me, it was the only way to ensure your safety and preserve the operation. If Victoria learned you were cooperating with us, the consequences could have been much worse than a night in a cell.» Emily wanted to argue but understood he was right.

Victoria wouldn’t stop at anything to protect herself and her backers. What now? Michael asked. Smith said we must stay in the city.

Yes, until the investigation ends, Paul confirmed. «But that doesn’t mean you have to stay locked up. You can return to normal life.

Just…» He paused, but Apex Commerce Inc. won’t be the same. The company is under external management, audit ongoing, many employees will be questioned. And us? Emily asked.

What about us? You’re key witnesses, Paul replied. Your testimony will be decisive in court. But that doesn’t mean you have to put life on hold.

On the contrary, the sooner you return to normal life, the better. He pulled a business card from his pocket and handed it to Emily. My real phone number.

If problems or questions arise, call anytime. Emily took the card. It simply said «Paul O’Brien, FBI Economic Crimes Unit.»

«Thanks,» she said, putting the card in her bag. «And one more thing,» Paul added. «The materials you provided were very valuable.

Much more than you could imagine. They allowed not only to expose the scheme at Apex Commerce Inc. but also to uncover a whole network of similar companies through which billions of dollars were laundered. You did the country a great service.

Michael and Emily exchanged glances. The thought that their actions had such far-reaching consequences was both frightening and inspiring. «We just wanted the truth,» Emily said quietly.

«And thanks to you, truth prevailed,» Paul nodded. «And now, if no more questions, I must go.» «Work doesn’t wait.»

He shook their hands and left, leaving them alone in the FBI reception. «What now?» Michael asked, looking at Emily. She pondered.

Everything that happened in the last few days had completely changed her life. Work at Apex Commerce Inc. was in the past. Relationship with Michael.

Complicated question. «I don’t know,» Emily honestly replied. «Need time to process everything.

To understand what to do next.» Michael nodded, understanding her feelings. «I have a suggestion,» he said.

«Let’s start small. Just go somewhere to eat.» «I’m starving, and I’m sure you are too.»

Emily smiled. This simple human approach was exactly what she needed now. Not grand plans and decisions, but something simple and understandable.

«Sounds great,» she said. «I know a good cafe nearby.» They got their things from the duty officer and left the FBI building.

The day was clear and warm, as if nature itself rejoiced at their release. They walked down the street, talking about simple things—weather, the city, how the center had changed in recent years. Avoiding big topics and painful questions.

In the cafe, they ordered lunch and finally relaxed. The food was simple but tasted incredibly delicious after everything. «You know,» Michael said when they finished eating, «I need to tell you something.»

«Something I’ve been hiding all this time.» Emily tensed. «Another secret?» «Another blow.»

«What exactly?» Michael took a deep breath. «Remember the fortune teller at the airport?» «The one who warned you of danger and advised going back to the office.» «Of course,» Emily nodded.

«If not for her, I’d have flown away and never learned the truth. It wasn’t a random encounter,» Michael said quietly. «I hired her.

More precisely, not exactly a fortune teller, but an actress. I knew Victoria was planning something serious, but couldn’t warn you directly—she was watching my every move. So I came up with this way.

Emily stared at him, not believing her ears. You? You planned this whole thing with the fortune teller? Michael nodded. I was afraid for you, Emily.

Afraid Victoria would use and frame you. She’d done it before with others. With other women.

So it’s true?» Emily asked quietly. What she said about your past flings with her employees, Michael lowered his eyes. Partially…Contract for a year, work in Europe. Congratulations,» Emily said sincerely. «That’s a great opportunity.»

«Did you accept?» «Still thinking,» Michael replied. It means moving to another country, starting from scratch. Not sure if I’m ready for such changes.

Emily understood his doubts. After everything, starting a new life in a new place would be logical. But leaving everything familiar and dear, heading into the unknown—required courage.

«And you?» Michael asked. «Any plans for the future?» Emily pondered. The last months she’d lived day by day, not making long-term plans.

Work, home, rare meetings with friends. Her life was calm but somehow incomplete. «Don’t know,» she honestly replied.

«Like the job, but something’s missing.» «Maybe change?» «Maybe new goals?» Michael looked at her attentively. «You know,» he said, pausing, «I could recommend you to this international company for opportunities there.

They’re looking not only for consultants but also financial analysts with auditing experience.» «Your profile would be ideal.» Emily raised her eyebrows in surprise.

«You’re suggesting I go to Europe with you?» «Not exactly,» Michael shook his head. «I’m suggesting you consider a good career opportunity.» «Whether we go together or separately is another question.»

Emily looked at him, trying to sort her feelings. Part of her still loved Michael, despite all the complications and deceit. Another part feared trusting him again, feared repeating past mistakes.

«I’ll think about it,» she finally said. «It’s a serious decision, can’t be made on impulse.» Michael nodded, understanding her caution.

«Of course.» «You have until the end of the month to decide.» «I can send your resume, and then it’s up to you.»

They continued talking, discussing the upcoming trial and other topics. After the cafe, Michael walked Emily home; she finally decided to return to her apartment after Paul assured her the danger had passed. «Thanks for the meeting,» he said, stopping at the entrance.

«And think about the offer.» «It’s really a good opportunity, regardless of…» «Us.» Emily nodded.

«I’ll think.» «Really.» «And thanks for suggesting.»

They said goodbye, and Emily went up to her apartment. Sitting on the couch, she pondered Michael’s offer. «Move to Europe—new job, new life.»

It was tempting. Especially now, when so many memories and associations tied her to this city, to Apex Commerce Inc., to the story of deceit and betrayal. But was she ready to work near Michael again? See him every day, collaborate with him? And most importantly, was she ready to trust him again? Emily went to the window and looked at the city bathed in autumn gold.

So much had happened in the last six months. So many shocks, discoveries, changes. She was no longer that naive Emily who planned a vacation with her boss’s husband.

She’d become stronger, wiser, more cautious. Perhaps that’s why she could now make a decision based not on emotions, but on sober calculation and self-understanding. Emily took her phone and dialed Michael’s number.

«I think,» she said. «When he answered, I’d like to learn more about this company and opportunities there. You can send them my resume.»

Of course, Michael’s voice had a smile. «I’ll do it today.» But, Emily added, this doesn’t mean that we.

That we’ll be together again. «I’m still not sure about that.» «I understand,» Michael replied.

«And I respect your decision. Whatever you choose, I’ll support you.» They said goodbye, and Emily put down the phone.

She felt a strange calm and confidence. For the first time in a long time, she looked to the future with hope, not fear. Life went on, despite all the shocks and disappointments.

And who knows, maybe the new page of this life would be brighter and happier than the previous one. Maybe all these trials were needed to lead her to true happiness. Emily smiled and opened the window, letting in fresh autumn air and city sounds.

She was ready for new beginnings, new challenges. Ready to write her story further—without lies and manipulations. Her own story, where she decides what to do and who to trust.

And though this story was just beginning, Emily felt it would be much happier than the previous one. Because now she knew the price of truth and believed in herself more than ever.