The Phantom's Game | 18+

Chapter 2

"So tell me about your plan," Isadora urged, placing a hand gently on her father's arm. The two of them sat in one of their private rooms at the restaurant. As always, her father ordered the same dishes she liked—mixed seafood and pasta.

The older man set his fork and knife aside and gazed at his daughter. His eyes shone with pride at how strong she had grown during the past five years, making his pride almost overwhelming. "This is the first real assignment I've given you since... well, ever. I hope you won't disappoint me," he said softly, his voice laden with emotion.

Isadora chuckled at his words. "Don't worry, papa; I know what I'm doing."

"I can see that. Well, let's discuss it then," he offered with a smile. "As you know, there is an event coming up in a couple of weeks. A charity ball for some charity or other. You will attend in disguise as my replacement, of course."

"Of course," She agreed. "Tell me what I need to do once I'm there."

"Your first task should be to secure an invitation, which I will hand over to you at some point. Then, you'll meet some influential people at the ball, including the mayor. After that, you'll have access to all the security measures necessary to keep everything quiet. Your main concern should be keeping your distance from those people. If you must approach them, make sure they think you're a close personal friend of mine, rather than someone who is only interested in business."

"Got it," the brunette answered quickly. After spending most of her life in this type of environment, dealing with people in power was easy for her.

"Also, be aware of our enemies, they might try to sabotage you or your mission somehow. Don't underestimate them, especially not your opponent, whoever he or she may be."

"I won't. I trust you, Papa."

"One more thing, weapons are not allowed in, so you must bring in something that won't be detected by the guards. I assume you may have something in mind?"

"I believe I might..." She commented, making a mental note to get to the black market soon, adding, "but I must get to the black market if I'm going to carry a weapon inside. That is the first order of business."

"Very well. Be prepared when you arrive to the ball." He rose from his seat, walking over to his daughter and embracing her tightly. "Be careful, Izzy. Please promise me that you'll be careful and use your weapon when necessary, just as I taught you."

The brunette wrapped her arms around her father in return, smiling at him reassuringly. "Of course, I won't let myself be taken down that easily," she assured him, giving him a reassuring kiss on the cheek. "Thank you for being concerned about me, papa. You're the best and most reliable father in the whole world."

It was rare for them to compliment each other, especially in public, but Isadora felt like she needed to reassure him that she wouldn't disappoint him.

Her father gave a small sigh of relief. "I'm very glad you feel the same way, Izzy. Now, I'll let you get back to your manor to rest. You may need it more these days."

A mischievous glint flashed across the brunette's eyes as she turned toward the door. She winked mischievously at her father as she headed to the exit. "I will, Papa."

Instead of heading to the manor as intended, she drove her way towards an exclusive nightclub. It was grand, elegant, and stylish, its decor matching that of the interior of its high profile clientele. 

It was a very sophisticated place. 

Not only did it cater to rich businessmen, but they were often accompanied by beautiful women dressed up as models, actresses, or movie stars. The place was practically bursting with the presence of wealth and prestige, and a lot of people frequented that club every night. The brunette parked her car right next to a black Ferrari GTO.

The bouncers recognized her immediately as she approached them, black velvet purse clutched tightly in hand. They allowed her in without uttering a word. She could say she was a regular patron here, often holding meetings in the VIP area. It was one of the things she loved about her job. The fact that she wasn't bound by any rules.

"Isadora Moretti?" one of the bouncers called out to her as she made her way towards the elevator that led upstairs.

"Yeah?" she responded, nodding towards him.

"Someone here wants to see you in the VIP area," the bouncer informed her, indicating with his head that she should take the direction he spoke.

At once, she understood that the person who had sent for her was someone important. It would be extremely rude of her to turn him down without hearing him out, even though he was probably just another arrogant businessman wanting to pick up a new piece of gossip.

But Isadora had no intention of giving up her night just like that. She was the kind of girl who didn't show weakness easily. Besides, her mission was to gather intelligence, so getting into an argument with a bunch of rich snobs was definitely not a smart move. She nodded toward the man before taking a step forward and disappearing behind the elevator's door.

The elevator took her directly to the VIP section of the place. 

There stood a tall, thin man standing near the bar, leaning against it and sipping his glass of whiskey. He wore a white tuxedo, perfectly tailored, revealing his body shape. His dark blond hair was neatly combed back, with a strand framing his face. When he finished the glass of liquor in front of him, he placed it down onto the counter. When he noticed the brunette approaching him, a grin spread widely across his face, revealing a row of perfect white teeth. 

"Ah, Miss Moretti," he exclaimed in a smooth voice, extending a hand to greet her.

She returned the gesture and took a closer look at him. A sharp, predatory gleam flickered in his deep blue eyes. His features were angular, his skin clear and unblemished, almost youthful looking. He exuded an air of power and confidence; a strong, silent presence that commanded attention and respect. Overall, he looked completely composed.

"Nice outfit," she remarked after a short while, gesturing towards his attire. She was impressed by his choice of clothing.

He smirked in response, clearly pleased. His eyes narrowed in amusement at her comment.

"Thank you. Now, shall we begin our meeting?"