YELLOW

PART 18

Anastasia's place had become our operational base. Garrett frequently came and went, bringing us supplies and food. The layout of Baker Corporation sprawled across the kitchen table, surrounded by countless cups of coffee.

"This is where the office is located," I pointed to the map as Anastasia stepped closer, followed by Garrett. "But accessing it won't be easy. This entire area is under constant surveillance. There's no way to enter the building without being seen, which means we'll never be able to get into the security room where the camera footage is monitored." I traced my finger along the paper, emphasizing the challenge.

"Maybe there's a way," Garrett suggested, standing with his arms crossed, his gaze shifting between the documents and us. "I heard your father is looking for a secretary..." He trailed off, leaving the implication hanging in the air.

"I could apply for the job," Anastasia interjected, looking at Garrett, who nodded in agreement.

"No," I replied firmly, cutting her off. "That's not an option. I won't let you do that." My tone was resolute.

"You're not asking me; I'm volunteering, and I'm going to do it regardless," she replied defiantly. I stood up, placing my hands on the table, frustration boiling inside me. "Do you even realize the risks involved?"

"Yes, and when I said I was willing to help you, I meant it," she countered, her eyes locked onto mine with unwavering determination. Garrett stood by, a knowing smile on his face, fully aware of what my expression meant when directed at a girl like her.

Weeks passed as we prepared Anastasia for her interview at my father's firm. She wore a sharp white tuxedo, her hair pulled back into a sleek ponytail, and her skin was expertly covered with foundation to disguise her tattoos. The glasses she wore added an air of professionalism. Her heels clicked confidently against the floor as she entered the building, a small camera discreetly mounted on her badge.

"Are you sure about this?" I asked through the microphone in my earpiece, my concern evident.

"I am," she replied, touching her earring lightly as a signal. With that, she approached the front desk, where Alicia was waiting.

"Okay, that's Alicia. Make sure to compliment her and mention that you're here to see Mr. Baker for your interview. But don't hesitate; otherwise, she'll catch on."

I listened through the headphones as Anastasia spoke.

"Hi, good morning. I'm Tania. I'm here for the interview with Mr. Baker." I could hear her voice clearly as Alicia escorted her toward my father's office.

"Mr. Baker, the candidate has arrived," Alicia announced.

"Awesome," my father replied, his tone casual. Meanwhile, I was focused on accessing the security camera feeds. After successfully decrypting the codes—thanks to that online hacking course I had taken—I felt a rush of accomplishment.

On the screen, I watched my father, his hands clasped together on the desk, inviting Anastasia to take a seat.

"Miss..." he started, glancing down at the documents in front of him, likely her résumé. "Walker?" he asked, and Anastasia nodded.

"Yes," she responded confidently.

"Why did you apply for this position? What's your ambition behind it?" he inquired, his gaze penetrating as he studied her.

**A Few Days Earlier**

"You need to walk in with confidence. Keep his gaze and don't hesitate," I instructed, watching Anastasia pace the living room, her nerves evident.

"Put one foot in front of the other, and keep your back straight," I said, standing up to adjust her posture.

"Marcus, you're stressing me out," she replied, frustration creeping into her voice.