Signed in Blood: The Price of Secrets

Pt1~EVINCE

{Flashback} Somewhere in New Zealand~

The news anchor's voice echoed through the dimly lit office.

"Mira, the partial owner of The Cross, was rushed to the hospital after a fire broke out at her home, according to neighbors. The owners of The Cross Animation, a subsidiary of The Illumination Corp., have yet to release an official statement regarding her condition. However, sources confirm that the victim succumbed to her injuries en route to the hospital. May her soul rest in pea—"

A sharp click silenced the television. The room, already heavy with tension, sank into an eerie stillness. They had expected something like this—but not so soon.

"This could be a hoax. We need confirmation," a woman murmured, stepping forward. Yet even as she spoke, doubt lingered in her eyes. She wasn't just seeking the truth—she was avoiding it.

A man in his late twenties, leaning against the doorframe, lifted his gaze from the floor, a deep frown etched on his face. "We were too late," he muttered. "We should've seen this coming."

The woman inhaled sharply, steeling herself. "Then we move up the plan," she said, her fingers already dialing a number. "You two, get here—now." Her voice wavered, but she refused to break.

A sharp crash interrupted the silence as another woman hurled the remote across the room. "How could they do this to their own blood? She trusted us—and we failed her."

The weight of unspoken guilt settled over them.

A rhythmic tap, tap, tap of a pen against the desk filled the void.

"I'll make sure no suspicions fall on us," a tall man said, stepping into the room. His voice was deep, controlled. "I'll provide the joint agreement papers to her."

Another man stood beside him, silent, eyes fixed on some distant point beyond the room.

"You can do this," the woman who had turned off the television whispered, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Do it for your mother."

The silent man finally spoke. "I will." His voice was steady, but his face betrayed him. "It'll take time. I have to make sure Hawthorne will be safe too."

"I hope her brother found the signed document Mira left for him," the woman who had been on the phone murmured.

{Present} The Cross Office, New Zealand

The office was a sleek blend of dark grays and polished wood, modern yet imposing. A massive flat-screen TV hung directly opposite a grand desk, while floor-to-ceiling windows offered a sweeping view of the bustling complex below. Employees moved like ants, lost in their own worlds.

Lilith shifted uncomfortably. Something about this place felt... off. She couldn't place it, but the air itself felt heavy. Yet she had no choice—this was a monumental deal, one she had worked tirelessly to secure. First impressions were everything.

Two figures sat across from each other, signing documents. One of them, Lilith, clutched her pen tightly, trying to steady her hands.

"Thank you for initiating this joint contract with our company, Mr. Cross," she said, keeping her elation in check.

Today marked a turning point in her career—her company, The Effects, had just secured a two-year contract with The Cross Animation Company. An opportunity like this was beyond what she had ever imagined.

Mr. Cross, a composed man with an unreadable expression, slid the signed papers toward her. "Don't thank me," he said. "It was Eric who brought your company to my attention. Your stock growth and reviews were impressive. I believe this partnership will benefit both our markets in Korea and New Zealand."

Lilith smiled slightly. "My brother is a lawyer. He insisted on this direct contract with The Illumination's labelmates. When I heard about your branch here in New Zealand, I was hesitant. I assure you,this will be profitable"

She scanned the final clauses—terms of termination, obligations—before signing. "I'm truly sorry about Miss Mira's passing," she added, the realization hitting her.

Mr. Cross gave a curt nod. "Thank you." His voice was hollow, distant.

A knock at the door interrupted them.

"May I come in, sir?" A deep voice asked.

Mr. Cross nodded. "Miss Hawthorne, this is Eric."

A tall man entered, his gaze unreadable as he shook hands with her. The air around him was cold, calculated. Lilith swallowed, feeling the shift in atmosphere.

Mr. Cross, sensing the awkwardness, let out a dry chuckle. "He's my secretary and our company's supervisor. Though he's been arriving late to work these days."

Eric bowed slightly. "Apologies, sir. I had Mira's press attention to attend to."

The moment the words left his lips, Mr. Cross's voice turned sharp. "It's Miss Mira to you. Don't mix personal ties with work."

Lilith stiffened as the tension thickened. Eric, however, remained impassive.

With a deep breath, she extended her hand toward Mr. Cross. "Looking forward to this alliance."

He shook it, offering a small nod. "Our team will provide all necessary details regarding your office here."

Lilith returned the gesture. "My assistants, Caleb Hoalt and Noah Holt, will handle the rest on my end."

With that, they exchanged parting words, and Lilith stepped into the hallway. Relief washed over her—this was it. The beginning of something big.

Pulling her phone from her coat, she typed a message to Caleb and Noah about the account files. Just as she was about to pocket it, the screen buzzed.

Unknown Caller.

She hesitated. Probably someone from the new alliance. Not worth answering right now.

Still staring at the text, she turned a corner—

And crashed straight into two men.

Coincidentally, the very ones who had been looking for her.