Chapter 16: A New Alliance

Olivia walked into the office just as Emma, Alexander, and Rachel were deep in discussion. The tension in the room was palpable as they worked through the latest information they had uncovered about Eleanor’s network. Emma looked up, surprised. “Olivia! You didn’t tell me you were coming today. Have you missed me so fast? We just met yesterday.” Olivia laughed, her voice light and teasing. “Well, I was passing by the company and thought I’d pop in. And yes, you could say I missed you.” Alexander greeted Olivia with a polite nod. “Olivia, good to see you.” “Good to see you too, Alexander,” she replied warmly. Rachel, still engrossed in her work, offered a quick, distracted “Hi,” without lifting her head from the documents she was reviewing. Olivia chuckled at the sight. “That’s one serious private investigator you’ve got there,” she whispered, nudging Emma playfully with her elbow. Emma elbowed her back with a grin. “You have no idea.” Olivia leaned in, still chuckling softly. “