The Threads Of Deceit

Chapter Two: Web Of Lies

So this is Lucas, she thought, her pulse slowly calming. The staff’s rumours hadn’t done him justice. His coldness was more than just a rumour—it was a wall, one that he had carefully built between himself and the world around him.

But she can’t help but admit, she is surprised.

Ellie's heart raced every time she caught a glimpse of Lucas during their exchange. His striking features were a blend of rugged masculinity and sharp elegance; high cheekbones framed his chiselled jawline, which often bore a hint of stubble, adding to his allure. His dark hair fell just above his brows, tousled yet effortlessly stylish, accentuating his piercing eyes that seemed to hold a storm of emotions beneath their cold exterior.

The way he carried himself exuded confidence, with broad shoulders and a strong, lean build that hinted at both strength and grace. His presence commanded attention, and Ellie couldn't help but admire the way he moved—deliberate and purposeful, as if every step he took was a dance between authority and vulnerability.

Very bad, El.

He is your employer.

And Vivian’s—?

Partner?

Much younger companion?

It’s a puzzling dynamic that intrigues and unsettles her. What is it that binds them together? Whatever it is, She can’t afford to be ensnared in their web of complexities.

With that she made her way back to the kitchen, her mind racing. It was clear that Lucas had no interest in her beyond what was necessary. And maybe that was better. She didn’t need more complications in her life, especially not with someone as cold and unreadable as him.

Lucas continued down the hall, not sparing another thought for Ellie. She was just another face in the house, another piece of the life that Vivian had constructed for him. He had no time or interest for anything beyond what was necessary to keep things running smoothly. His world was full of schemes, deals, and shadows.

The girl didn’t matter.

Yet, for a brief moment, he had felt her presence. Not her, specifically, but the sense that someone was intruding on the carefully curated bubble of his life. It annoyed him. Not enough to dwell on, but enough to ensure that she stayed where she belonged—out of sight, out of mind.

He didn’t need distractions. Especially not from someone as inconsequential as the new maid.

___________________________________________

The gallery buzzed with energy as Lucas and Vivian arrived, slipping into the grand hall with effortless grace. The sprawling space, bathed in soft lighting and adorned with priceless art, was more than a display of wealth—it was a carefully orchestrated front for their true dealings. Every painting, every sculpture, served a dual purpose: aesthetic appeal and a hidden agenda.

Lucas scanned the room, his cold gaze falling upon Mr. Hayes, their primary mark for the night. The man stood near one of the expansive windows, surrounded by his bodyguards, each one scrutinising the crowd with hawkish intensity. Something felt off. The guards were too alert, their postures too tense. Lucas narrowed his eyes.

Vivian slid her arm through his, her ruby lips curling into a seductive smile. "Right on time," she purred. "Let’s give them the show they’re expecting."

Her calm demeanour only deepened the unease gnawing at Lucas’s gut. This wasn’t just any con—it was one of Vivian’s more ambitious plans, involving not just an expensive art deal but a complex exchange of fake antiquities. She had crafted every detail, but Lucas couldn't shake the feeling that she’d misjudged their target.