If you only knew...

31.Nothing but pawns

Xavier's POV

Our boss flashes that signature smile again, the kind that's supposed to inspire warmth. But for me, it's a different story; instead of comfort, it sends a chilling shiver racing down my spine.

"V, Ana, take a seat, please," he commands, his tone heavy with the promise of impending news. Just as he's about to unleash whatever he has in store, I jump in.

"Apologies for cutting in, but you can call me Xavier; Ana already knows my name."
And way more than that...

"Oh, so you two have already forged a little bond, huh? I wouldn't be surprised, considering all the challenging situations you've faced together!" he exclaims, his eyes sparkling with curiosity." Is there something more brewing between you two?" he adds with a playful chuckle.

The air grows thick with tension as we both fall silent, and an unexpected wave of embarrassment washes over me. I scramble to conceal my feelings, stealing a glance at Ana, only to find her trapped in the same flustered state—her struggle to mask it is all too clear.

Desperate to defuse the moment, I clear my throat and say, "Just a partnership connection, sir." I hope my tone sounds convincing, but a part of me knows I'm only trying to convince him of a truth that feels far from real.

"Oh, it's best to keep things separate; mixing work and love doesn't tend to blend well. I need both of you fully focused during assignments!" His tone softens, almost as if he is offering us a piece of sage advice.

"Alright, let's return to the reason why I brought you here today. I have an exciting new mission to share," he states, his voice resonating with urgency and determination."Xavier, I realize you might still be dealing with the aftermath of your injury. Are you up for this?"

"Do I even have a choice?" I reply, my tone flat, betraying none of the turmoil swirling inside me.

"Honestly? No. I hesitated to say it, but you're the best agent I've got," he asserts, his eyes locking onto mine. "Despite the numerous people in this company, you've consistently outperformed the rest. You've handled some of the most perilous tasks without hesitation. I've closely observed your intelligence, focus, bravery, and unwavering determination. I don't want to add excessive pressure on you, but you're our only option when it comes to a difficult mission."

I jump in, my voice steady, revealing a hint of sarcasm. "So, it's either that or..."

"Getting fired," he finishes for me, his demeanor cool and serious.

His words echo in my mind, suggesting a harsh reality: when agents become useless, they are swiftly replaced. In this ruthless game, there's little room for sentiment.

"It's not his fault!" Ana erupts, her face a tapestry of rage and frustration. I've never seen her like this before—so consumed by emotion that it's almost unrecognizable. "He's invaluable and doesn't deserve this! I'm the one who lost focus; it's my carelessness that caused this!" Her voice trembles, a mixture of pleading and desperation.

"Ana, I understand your point," he says, attempting to maintain calm. "but we have to confront the facts, the reality of the situation is that..."

"I'll take the task," I cut in, my voice unwavering, as my expression remains carefully blank. Inside, however, a storm rages—frustration collides with fear, twisting and turning as I brace myself for the challenges ahead.

Ana's POV

Every time our boss opens his mouth, it feels like he's driving a nail deeper into my nerves and sadness. I can hardly wrap my head around his heartlessness and the shocking indifference of this entire company towards its agents. We sign up, fully aware of the risks to our lives and safety, yet it seems we deserve at least a shred of appreciation – especially for those of us who have tackled the most perilous and insane assignments without batting an eye!