Shadows of Deceit | MilkLove

Ch4: Getting Closer

"My head is pounding from all these numbers," Tinh complained, rubbing his temples. "How are we supposed to make sense of all this?"

Pat sat at her desk, poring over the files that Pan had provided. The information seemed comprehensive, but the sheer volume of financial data was also giving her a headache. Next to her, Tinh let out an exasperated sigh, his brow furrowed in frustration.

"I've been staring at these numbers until my eyes are crossing," he said, slumping into a chair across from Pat.

Tinh noticed the business card sitting on Pat's desk and picked it up, turning it over in his hand. "Maybe the director left this for a reason," he said with a sly grin.

Pat rolled her eyes. "Don't start with it Tinh."

"Oh, c'mon," Tinh said, tossing the card back down. "She gave the card for a reason."

Pat shot him a warning look. "I don't have time for your nonsense. If you're not going to be helpful, you can leave."

Tinh held up his hands in surrender. "Alright, alright. I'm just saying," he leaned back in his chair, studying Pat's expression, "you know, a fresh perspective might be just what we need to crack this case wide open."

Pat felt her cheeks flush, and she quickly turned her attention back to the files. "Fine, I'll think about it. But, let's do this on our own first okay?"

Tinh chuckled and shook his head. " Whatever you say, boss. Anyway, I'm gonna take a break and let my brain rest, you know where to find me." He stood up and headed for the door.

As the door closed behind him, Pat let out a frustrated sigh. Maybe Tinh was right.

***

The lights in the darkened room cast long, ominous shadows as a mysterious figure moved with purpose. Gloved hands reached out, carefully removing a painting of a galloping horse from the wall. Behind it, a sturdy steel vault door stood imposingly.

Nimble fingers traced the worn numbers of the combination lock, pressing each one with care. Finally, the lock mechanism disengaged with a solid thunk. The figure paused, hand hovering over the vault handle. A beat of anticipation, and then the door was wrenched open - only to reveal it empty.

A grunt of frustration escaped their lips as they slammed a fist against the metal, the hollow thud echoing through the stillness.

***

Pat took a sip of the hot coffee, savoring the rich aroma for a moment. As much as she hated to admit it, the director had good taste. She looked up to find Pan watching her intently, a small smile playing on her lips.

"Thank you for accepting my invitation, Sergeant," Pan said, her voice low and smooth.

Pat waved a dismissive hand. "It's nothing," she replied, eyes narrowing suspiciously. "Though, you know, I'm starting to wonder if those files you gave me were actually helpful, or..." she hesitated. Pan looking at her waiting for her to continue "...it is some kind of ploy to get me here."

The director let out a light, melodic laugh before placing a hand over her heart, pretending to be offended. "Sergeant, you wound me. I'm simply trying to be a good citizen and give my assistance to your investigation." Her lips curved into a playful smile. "Though I certainly wouldn't object to a more...personal reason for our meetings, if you want."

Pat felt her cheeks warm under the director's intense gaze. She arched a brow, refusing to be flustered. "And what makes you so sure I'd even say 'yes' to...that?" she challenged.