Agents of Trust

1 - The news

Monday, 07:02 A.M., New York

How do I stop myself from killing an old man?

Right now it's seven a.m and I've been woken up by a ridiculous amount of phone calls. 

My assistant, Joane, was the first to notify me of the news going around.

For context, I might have crossed a line with the wife of John Talker, a very important man with a lot of connections. As a partner in work, he's unmatched. As a husband? Perhaps less so. 

Everyone who knew him knew he was cheating with countless women while ignoring the one he had at home. 

His wife was lonely, feeling sad and unwanted. Though we had met a few times before during important events, we never really had much of a reason to talk. Still, her undeniable beauty stayed on my mind. 

The most recent event was hosted by the Talkers. So, two nights ago, some flirting and a few too many drinks led me to her bedroom somehow.

I don't remember much of that night. The memories were replaced by John's screaming when he found us mid act. I could still hear him swearing revenge as I walked away.

To be honest, I was not very worried. Even someone like John doesn't reach my family easily. While being the oldest child of one of the most powerful families in the world had it's disadvantages, it sure had it's perks.

Eight years have passed since I've started leading the family bussiness. 

At first, no one believed I could manage it, actually, there were news about the Reed family coming to an end. Now, there is no one who would say my name lightly.

It wasn't easy. Being a young woman on this field, getting the trust and respect of conservative old men proved to be a challenge. 

The Reeds have been producing technology for governments for decades. Money, fame and power. There is nothing we lack.

"Cameron?", There was someone behind my door.

Recognizing the voice as my younger brothers', I let him come in.

I was now sitting on the bed as the door slowly opened revealing Conan. While I was still a mess, he looked absolutely ready to face the day.

Raising him after our parents passed away wasn't easy but he turned out to be a nice kid.

"Your face is on the news everywhere.", He stated, sitting down at the couch to the left of the bed.

Though he sounded concerned, Conan was also very composed and calm, as usual. The silly Conan no longer existed. This was a bit concerning, since he was still only seventeen but therapy didn't seem to help with that.

I sighed, throwing myself back, my head falling on my pillow. What great revenge... At least make it fun.

"The media won't leave you alone for the next few days, you should stay out of their sight."

"I'm not staying inside this house for days."

"What about Kate? Aunt said you should go away for a bit."

Hm, that's actually... Not a bad idea. No, that's a great idea! I can escape work without Joane killing me! How long has it been since I've seen Kate? Alright, it's decided! Grabbing my phone, I text Joane so that she could prepare my flight. 

"Ok, then. Joane will take care of things while I'm gone, if you need anything just ask her."

There was a weird look on his eyes but it didn't last long enough for me to understand it. After a quick goodbye, Conan was gone.