CHAPTER 12

77 20 57
                                        


Rick's POV

Stepping into ArtiQues, my smart art gallery infused with Italian culture, I was greeted by an array of masterpieces. The door's chime resonated through the air, attracting the attention of customers immersed in the beauty of the Renaissance and modern art pieces. My gaze swept over the room, appreciating the works of renowned artists like Henry Holiday and the sculptures echoing Michelangelo and Bernini.

 My gaze swept over the room, appreciating the works of renowned artists like Henry Holiday and the sculptures echoing Michelangelo and Bernini

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

My strides took me past these exquisite creations to the office, a space that allowed me to retreat from the world's chaos

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

My strides took me past these exquisite creations to the office, a space that allowed me to retreat from the world's chaos. Closing the door behind me, I moved to a bookshelf, discreetly revealing the facial recognition door lock. The system's beep confirmed my identity, unlocking the hidden door to the agency's inner sanctum.

The familiar faces of my colleagues greeted me, and as usual, Bryce was engaged in one of his animated arguments, this time over a football match, with Fred, another colleague

Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.

The familiar faces of my colleagues greeted me, and as usual, Bryce was engaged in one of his animated arguments, this time over a football match, with Fred, another colleague.

They bantered back and forth, their voices adding a touch of levity to the otherwise serious atmosphere of the office.

"Come on, Fred! You can't honestly believe that team has a chance," Bryce exclaimed with a hint of amusement.

Fred shook his head, not backing down. "You just wait and see. They'll surprise you."

I rolled my eyes, annoyed by their antics. "Enough of that," I stated firmly, my voice commanding their attention. "We have more pressing matters to discuss".

DEADLY DECEPTIONWhere stories live. Discover now