A017's POV
A few weeks had passed since the intense raid, and although things had calmed down somewhat, the search for Rafaela and Rigo continued. The pressure was on as we posted updates about their illegal activities, trying to track them down and bring them to justice for Martina's kidnapping.
Despite the ongoing hunt, life at the company had settled into a somewhat normal rhythm. However, Sebastian's frequent visits to the office had become a source of tension. I couldn't help but notice the uneasy interactions between him and Eric. It was clear that Eric was not comfortable with Sebastian's presence.
One afternoon, as I was working in my office, I overheard a heated argument between Eric and Sebastian just outside.
Eric: "Sebastian, you need to stay out of this. Your involvement isn't helping us find Rafaela. It's just complicating things."
Sebastian: "I'm only trying to help. You know I have connections and information that could be useful. But I'm getting the feeling that you're more interested in keeping me out than actually solving this case."
Eric: "It's not about keeping you out. It's about focusing on what's important. We need to follow leads that are actionable, not get sidetracked by personal vendettas."
Sebastian: "Personal vendettas? You think I have some sort of grudge? I'm trying to assist here. If you'd let me, maybe we could actually make some progress."
Eric: "It's not that simple. You have a history with Rafaela, and that history makes it hard to trust your motives. We need reliable information, not distractions."
Sebastian: "And you think I'm not reliable? I'm trying to do what's best. If you don't trust me, that's your issue, but don't accuse me of undermining the investigation."
Their argument grew more intense, and I could see Eric's frustration mounting. I decided it was time to intervene before things escalated further.
I approached them cautiously. "Eric, Sebastian, maybe we should all sit down and go over the facts together. We need to focus on finding Rafaela, not on personal grievances."
Eric looked at me, his frustration evident but softened by my presence. "Alright, Liezel. Maybe you're right. Let's discuss this calmly."
Sebastian nodded, though his expression was still tense. "Fine. Let's get this sorted."
After the argument between Eric and Sebastian, I approached Eric in the quiet of our office, wanting to understand his concerns better.
Liezel: "Eric, can we talk for a minute?"
Eric: "Sure, what's on your mind?"
Liezel: "I couldn't help but notice the tension between you and Sebastian. What's going on?"
Eric: "It's just... I don't trust him. His history with Rafaela makes me uneasy. I don't know if he's here to genuinely help or if he has other motives."
Liezel: "I understand your concern. But Sebastian has been cooperating, and he seems genuinely interested in finding Rafaela. Maybe we need to give him a chance."
Eric: "It's not that simple. His presence here complicates things. I've seen the way he looks at you, Liezel. There's something off about it."
Liezel: "Sebastian's interest in me is not a concern. He's made it clear that he wants to help with the investigation. If anything, he's been a valuable asset."
Eric: "It's not just about you. It's about how he's acting like he has a stake in this. I'm worried that he's using this opportunity for his own agenda."
Liezel: "I get where you're coming from. But we need to focus on our main goal—finding Rafaela. If we let personal issues get in the way, we risk jeopardizing the whole investigation."
Eric: "You're right. I just can't shake the feeling that something isn't right. But I'll try to set my feelings aside and focus on the mission."
Liezel: "Thank you, Eric. I know this is difficult, but we need to work together. Let's stay focused on what's important and keep our eyes on the bigger picture."
Eric sighed and nodded, his frustration momentarily easing.
Eric: "Alright. I'll try to keep my concerns in check. But if you notice anything strange, please let me know."
Liezel: "Of course. We're in this together, and we'll get through it."
As we continued our discussion, I could see the weight of Eric's worries lifting a little. We both knew that our primary focus needed to remain on the investigation and finding Rafaela, despite the personal challenges we faced.
