MY SWEET GENTLE FIANCEE IS AN ASSASSIN

   A short story for special people in my life. This story is for you hope you like it. I use you name in this story. This is a fictional story. Enjoy reading... 

For Sis Gillian and Brother Shane. This story is for the both of you.

                     MY SWEET GENTLE FIANCEE IS AN ASSASSIN                        

 

          In the middle of the night a man in a wheelchair was seated on his office table. A secret project was laying on his table. His most trusted assistant was standing in front of him. The man on the wheelchair name Shane Ford, he was the heir and president of the Ford Industry. His most trusted assistant name Mark Williams. Shane was listening to Mark’s report. He says their inside source has confirmed that Travis has hired the overseas Shadow Organization. they will sneak into the villa before midnight aiming for the Dragon Abyss Project. Shane says the outer guard cannot stop the Shadow’s men. Mark sigh. Shane asked if there any news about Phantom, the one he told him to tracked out. Mark says they’ve searched every global channel.  All they’ve confirmed is that she is in the city. Shane grasps his wheelchair. Mark says no identity, no whereabouts. It’s as if she vanished into thin air.  Shane order to keep searching. Only Phantom can safeguard that confidential file. He says in his mind he has feigned disability for three years just waiting to close the net. Travis was exactly the bait. He been fishing for. Mark says by the way, he scathed his neck and says the old master issued a strict order. Miss Gillian has moved into the villa. He must register their marriage with her within three months. Otherwise, the custody of the Dragon Abyss Project will be fully transferred and he will never get it back.  Shane finger tapping the armchair. Shane says that delicate little lamb from the Walsh family. She is nothing but a figurehead his grandfather brought in a total burden. Shane told Mark to make sure she stays in her room and doesn’t cause any trouble. Mark says understood.

           Upstairs in Gillian’s room she was on the phone with her friend Kerri. Gillian was in her pajama and holding a soft toy bunny in her arms while standing near the window. Kerri asking if she lost her mind. She was Phantom the top three mercenary worldwide. Was she really gonna play the gentle wife and marry Shane. Was she serious. Gillian smile and called Kerri bestie and says she just don’t get it. She done her research. He was into that type. She has to act the part well to stay by his side. Gillian touches the bunny earn in her arms. Kerri says all that because he saved her years ago. Gillian says yes, she liked him for years. This mission let her protect him and guard the Dragon Abyss Project While getting close to him. It’s killing two birds with one stone. Kerri says she was clearly mixing personal feelings with work those she knows that. Gillian says not at all. It’s having love and career at the same time. Kerri says alright fine but was she sure he can accept the real her. What if he finds out she was Phantom decisive and ruthless with blood on her hands. With his cold and peculiar temperament. He will kick her out without a second thought. Gillian says in her mind that is why she absolutely cannot let him find out.  Then she hears a voice from outside.

         Hey! Who’s there. Stop right there. Gillian says gotta go. Someone’s there. She looks from the window of her room. She says in her mind men from the Shadow Organization. They sure move fast. The dragon Abyss Project must be protected. But right now, she was in her gentle wife persona. She cannot take action openly. She needs to come up with a plan. Got it. Order takeout! She can head downstairs openly and deal with them along the way. Perfect. She scrolls her phone and takes out order. In she says she such a genius. She kisses the princess bunny toy her arms. Downstairs all the guard was alerted. Doorbell rang. Mark asked who was there. Outside the door the man says food delivery. Late-night snack ordered by Miss Gillian. Mark says late-night snack? Mark opens the door to take the food. Shane comes out and says she ordered that? Mark put back the gun on her hand and says it seems so. Gillian comes down the stairs. In her pajama, wear a bunny slipper and holding bunny toy in her arms. She called Shane honey and asked if he was hungry too? She ordered barbecue and milk tea. She asked if she want some. Shane looks at her from head to toe. Then he says they haven’t registered their marriage yet. He told her not to called him that. Gillian says but grandpa said they’re bound to get married sooner or later. Shane says he told her to stay in her room. It’s dangerous tonight. Don’t wander around. Gillian act gentle and meek says sorry and says it was her fault. She says she will take the food back to her room. She took the takeout food and started to walk back upstairs. Shane asked if they catch the intruder. Mark says Kian’s men chased him for two blocks but he got away. They confirmed that the scout was from the Shadow Organization.  There to survey the premises. Travis will likely send his main force soon. Gillian heard all of it from the corner. Mark says also, before being subdued the intruder said there’s a mole inside the Ford family. Shane says a mole? Mark says most likely. Shane asked how long until the elite guards arrive.  Mark looks at his wrist watch and says all of them will be there in an hour. But there’s still no trace of the person he was looking for.  Without her there tonight he was afraid the Dragon Abyss Project will be. Shane look at Mark. Gillian still hiding says in her mind Shadow’s main force? Mole in the Ford family? Things are more complicated as she thought. Since her honey needs protection, she will take care of this for good measures.

           Gillian touches the curtain in her room and look outside. She saw three gunned men. She says in her mind three of them, B-class fighters, low-tier main force of Shadow. She looks at her wrist watch and says three minutes is more than enough. Won’t even ruin her snack time. She looks her door. She walks toward her cabinet. On the secret switch to revealed the secret compartment. A black body suit, a mask, pair of gloves and a knife. She removes her pajama and changes to the black body suit. She ties her hair on the high ponytail. One man was picking the door lock. He says the east side of the second-floor entry clear. When he opens the door a black suit woman catches his neck. She says hello there. Climbing through the window in the middle of the night? aren’t he cold? The man opens his eyes wide in shock. he says what? Who are you? The girl says she asked he answer. Answer correctly and she will let him go. Answe3r wrong well, he can guess? She asked who sent him. And what he there to steal? The mas says Travis. To get the Dragon Abyss Project from Shane’s study. She asked who was their inside contact in the Ford family. The man says he don’t know.  He was only responsible for scouting.  Their contact work exclusively with higher-ups.  She says he don’t know.  Then he was useless to her. The man asked if she was going to kill him?   She says kill him? that’s illegal. She was a law-abiding citizen. She knocks him out. Then she saw a tint pot broken. She went to pick it up and says oh no! Her succulent!  She tended it for a whole month. She touches the broken leaves and says poor little thing. She says sorry and she will replant tomorrow. She up down through the second-floor window. One more man was picking the lock. She says that is a n imported German lock.  His tools won’t work on it. The man startled look behind and asked who was there? She says just passing by to take a look. The man says she was asking for trouble. The man started to attack. She caught his hand with a knife and snap it. The man screams in agony. She says she told him he couldn’t pick it. He just wouldn’t listen. The other man crawling on the grass turn and, on his flashlight, to see who was behind him. The girl asked if she look familiar. The man says she was Phantom. She says he got the wrong person. She knocks him down. She looks at his wrist watch. Two minutes and forty-seven seconds. Then she heard voice.

          Intruder! there are people on the lawn. She says in her mind a new record. She climbs up back to her room. Change to her pajama and remove her ponytail. She started to eat her barbecue. She says hmmm, smell great and taste delicious. Kian’s men find the three intruder. He says all three were taken down with single move. The techniques are extremely professional typical of a top-tier mercenary. That wasn’t done by their men. Shane looks up and says to his mind to act under the noses of twenty guards and leave not a single clue behind. Mark asked if they should investigate the second floor.  Shane raises his hand and says no need. Spooking the prey would ruin the fun.  At the study, Mark says all three intruders have confessed they were indeed sent by Travis and their target was the Dragon Abyss Project but they all said they were taken down by a woman. One says he didn’t see her face. She moves so fast. On says she looked like an ordinary girl. Nothing special but her moves are not normal. The third man says Phantom. It was Phantom, he was sure. Shane look at Mark and says Phantom? Mark says yes, he thinks he was just scared senseless. They’ve searched the entire city and found no trace of her. How could she suddenly show up there and secretly help them. Shane asked if they check the surveillance cameras. Mark says nothing. The surveillance system was completely hacked. Not a single frame was captured. None of the guards saw anyone enter or leave either. Shane says interesting. A delicate young lady with no notable background moves into the villa right when the Shadow Organization is hunting him. And then a mysterious figure steps in to save the day. He asked Mark if he believe there are these many coincidences in the world. Mark asked if he was suspecting Miss Gillian? Shane laughed a little and says not actually suspicion. He just finds it amusing. He told to boost security. Travis won’t give up easily. Also, investigate the mole in secret.

            Gillian was laying awake in bed when her phone rings. It was Kerri. She answered the phone. She asked if all done.  Gillian says three B-class targets. Two minutes and forty-seven seconds. New personal records. Kerrie says was she serious? She thought she were playing the naïve little lamb. Isn’t she afraid of getting caught? Gillian says she didn’t let them see her face. Plus, she hacked the surveillance, flawless. Kerri asked if she really going to keep that up. She was Phantom, for goodness sake! Taking the anonymous mission to guard the Dragon Abyss is one thing, but why insist on marrying Shane? Gillian says she can handle the protection mission and chase her crush at the same time. Win-win. Kerri says suit herself. The she says by the way the anonymous client just messaged again. they say there may be a mole among Ford’s senior staff. She told Gillian to keep her eye out. Gillian says copy that. Those assassins tonight also mentioned someone inside the Ford family is helping them. She will keep watch. Kerri told Gillian to take care of herself. Don’t end up getting hurt just for a guy. Gillian says she knows. The called ended. Gillian was thinking. The Dragon abyss Project, a mole. She says in her mind Shane, do you have any idea how dangerous things are around him. No matter what happens he won’t let anyone hurt him. It is her mission but also her own wish. The next morning, Shane driving his electric wheelchair while Mark was following him. He says Shane have a board meeting via video call at ten that morning and he need to head to the company headquarters at two in the afternoon. Gillian come running hold the bunny stuff toys in her hand and says good morning honey. Shane says he told him not to call him that. She pouted and act cutely says but grandpa says.  Shane says grandpa said after three months. He told her to called him Mr. Shane. Gillian then leans forward and says good morning then, Mr. Shane. The she asked if he sleep well last night. Shane says there was quite a commotion in the villa last night. She seems to sleep soundly enough. Gillian laughs and says she was a heavy sleeper. Not even thunder can wake her up. She went behind the wheelchair and push it she says she made congee for breakfast today. She got up extra early to cook it. Mark says Miss Gillian is really thoughtful toward the president. In the dining table Gillian asked Shane to try the food quickly. Asked to tell her how it tastes. Ethan takes a scoop of congee. Then he says it was too salty. Gillian says, is it? and asked to let her taste. Gillian took Shane’s spoon she touches his hand. She jolts. Gillian says sorry she didn’t mean to. Shane says to himself this reaction doesn’t seem fake. She looks genuinely flustered.  Shane scoop the congee ang give it to her. She took the spoon and taste it. She says it was not that salty at all. She thinks he just too picky with food. Shane says it’s that so. Maybe his sense of taste is off.

         Mark was pushing Shane to the door when Gillian come running from the stairs asking to wait for her. She changes her clothes already. She wearing a halter white top and black skirt with a black canvass flat shoe. Shane turns the wheelchair and asked what was wrong.  Gillian leans and says she want to go to the company with him. Shane says she was going to work. He asked what she will going to do there. She says she was scared to be left alone in the villa. What if those bad guys come back again. She says to herself Travis is lying in wait. His security there is far from enough. She has to stay close to him to stop any sudden assassination attempts. Besides she just wants to spend more time with him. She leans to him again and says please take her with him. She promises she will behave and won’t disturb his work. Shane says fine, come along but remember there are many people at the company.  Don’t wander around. Gillian smile and says yes sir. She pushes the wheelchair to the car. Mark was just watching them. He says on himself Miss Gillian is so naïve and clingy. Hope she won’t cause trouble for the president. They are not yet gone far when Gillian notices a car following them. She says they are come are they planning to strike on the road. Then she looks at Shane and says she want the strawberry cake sold in the mall. She hasn’t had it in ages. She asked if they stop in a moment. She will be right back. It’s only taken a second. Shane looks at his watch and says they will be late for the board meeting. He says buy on the way back. Gillian took his hand and shake it saying just five minutes, please. Shane says hurry back and doesn’t go anywhere else. Gillian went out from the car. Shane saw a car stop on his left side when he looks at that side. He was thinking could that really be just another coincidence.  

         In the car park, the two men in the car was talking to the phone one man says the target car stop at the mall entrance. A woman got out and went inside. The others are still in the vehicle. The called asked to keep watching them. Strike as planned once they get back on the road. Then he says wait someone is coming. Someone knocks on their car window. it was a masked girl. One asked what was she wants.  masked girl says they work for Travis, don’t they? One man was touching his gun on his waist. The other asked who she was. The girl says someone who is sending them to the hospital. She knocks the diver in one move. The other man went out and attack her with a knife. The girl knocks him out too. She looks at her watch and says forty second not bad. The person was still on the phone asking what was going on. She took the phone the caller says whoever you are, does she think taking down these two will change anything? They planted a bomb in Shane’s car. It will detonate any moment now. He is doomed today. The phone fall down from Gillian’s hand. She is started to run back. Ethan phone rings and it was Gillian. He answered the phone. Gillian asked him to get out from the car. There was a bomb. She told him to leave the car right now. Gillian was at the entrance when she saw Shane car exploded. Her phone fall. Her tears come and she screams Shane’s name. She runs toward the car while saying please be alright. She didn’t see Shane on the car. She falls on the road crying. Mark was pushing Shane wheelchair on the other direction. Seeing her. Shane called Gillian’s name. When she hears him, she turns her head. Seeing bit was really him she stands up and run toward him.  She embraces him while saying he was alive. Thank goodness he was alive. She says she thought she lost him. She was so scared. Shane touches her back and asked how she knew that there was a bomb on the care. Gillian says while she was at the mall she saw a suspicious man loitering beside his car. She senses something was wrong. So, she called him. She was so terrified.  Then she says she will never leave at side again. Shane says seems to care more about his life than he does himself. She says he means everything to her.  Of course she cares.  Shane says to himself she only makes him more and more curious.

          Shane and Mark went to the control room. Mark asked why they was there. Shane says she need to check something. The monitor shows when Gillian when in. Then when she was wearing mask running out. After that it when black. Mark says it strange why is the parking lot surveillance down. Shane says it’s not broken. It was hacked. Mark says hacked? Who did that. Shane says to hack the surveillance system so precisely and take down two assassins in the blink of an eye. There are only a handful of people in the city with such skills. Mark says could it really be Phantom? In one of the luxuries building in the city one His sitting on the cough while holding a glass of red wine. That man name Travis. His subordinate says both their men sent were taken out. The attacker is a top-tier fighter seemingly a woman. They never got a clear look at her face. What’s more the bomb in Shane’s car failed to kill him.  He got out beforehand. Travis throws the glass of wine he was holding. He says they are all useless. They cannot even deal with one woman. The subordinate says they cannot find any clue at all. Travis says he underestimated Shane. If he wants The Dragon Abyss Project, he has to get rid of that woman first. The subordinate name was Lance. He was the Vice President of the Ford Industry. Lance says but that woman’s martial arts are extraordinary. Even the Shadow Organization’s men are no match for her. Travis stands up and says send ten men if one fails. Send hundred if ten fails. He was refusing to believe they cannot surround and take down a single woman. He will get his hands on Dragon Abyss Project no matter what. Lance says Shane is attending a hotel opening ceremony on the outskirts of the city in three days. It’s a remote location perfect for an assassination. This time they will make sure neither him nor that woman returns alive.

          Shane was back alone on his room. He stands up from the wheelchair. He removes his clothes to take a shower. While showering he says in his mind Gillian this woman grows more intriguing by the minute. If she really is Phantom what is her motive for approaching him. Is it for the Dragon Abyss Project or something else entirely. He off the water. Try himself and wear his bathroom and come out to the bathroom. Then he sat on his wheelchair again. He says on her mind no matter who she was tonight he will test her. His Shane asked what the matter was. She comes in but strip on her own feet on the floor carpet. She was landed on Shane’s in the wheelchair. Gillian says on her mind “oh my God, What an amazing figure! This cold, aloof man is so captivating up close. I, I can barely breathe.” Gillian looks up and says in herself why he was so handsome. Shane smiles a little and says had enough touching. Gillian come back to reality. She hurriedly stands up and says sorry she didn’t mean to. But s stumble in his arms again. Gillian says to her mind that feeling she might as well bury herself right now.  She stands up again and straightens her pajamas. Shane says Miss Gillian there is no need to throw herself into his arms in such aa hurry. Gillian says sorry she really didn’t mean to. Shane asked what was wrong. Why aren’t she asleep wandering into his room so late at night. Gillian says she was scared. She doesn’t dare sleep alone. Shane says scared? Gillian says it was noisy downstairs just now and she hear people shouting. She asked if she could sleep there with him. Shane says to her mind this is the perfect chance to test her thoroughly. Shane says it’s indeed unsafe tonight. Stay there and sleep if she was frightened. Gillian opens wide her eyes and says really. Shane says hmmm. Gillian run to his bed and jump on it. She lay on the bed. Shane off the light.

       Shane smile. He climbed on the bed. He pushed Gillian under him. Gillian says in her mind why is he getting so closed all of the sudden. In trembling voice, she asked Shane what he was doing. Shane smile and says he has been thinking about something. Gillian shallow hard and asked what it was. Shane says his grandpa want then to get married within three months. He touches some lose hair in her earns and says since they’re bound to be husband and wife sooner or later, she wouldn’t mind fulfilling their marital duties ahead of time, would she? Gillian says fulfill marital duties. She says in her mind what does he mean? Is the plot moving wat too fast? She grasps the side of the bedsheet. she closes her eyes. Shane says to her mind she looks so nervous, yet she still doesn’t push him away. Is she truly too delicate to resist. or is this all an act. His nose was already touching her nose. Shane says if he goes any further, they will actually kiss. He was tapping his bed them suddenly something hit on the window. Gillian opens her eyes and asked Shane to look out. She holds him down on bed. The bullet passes through her hair and hit the wall. Shane says in his mind so Gillian she was really Phantom.

        Outside on of the guard says sniper. Protect the president. Gillian suddenly burst into crying. Saying it was terrifying. There was a gunshot. Shane says she reacted remarkably fast just now. Gillian says she was just scared that she pushed him without thinking. She doesn’t even know where she got the strength. her hand is still shaking. Shane says her fear seems genuine. yet that instinctive response to danger is far beyond what an ordinary person could have. Someone knock on the door asking if he was alright. Shane says he was fine. He asked where was the snipper? The guard says he got away. Kian is leading the men to chase him. Shane asked to boost the security at once. If anything like that happens again, all of them will be dismissed. Shane touched Gillian head and asked her to get up. saying it was safe now. Gillian looks up and asked if he was hurt. Shane says he was fine. Fortunately, she was quite agile and pushed him away in time. Gillian says agile? What does he mean? She just panicked and lunged forward. She started to cry again. Shane says to himself she will catch her slipping up eventually. They have a plenty of time. Shane told Gillian to stay in her room for the night. Her will head to the study. Gillian holds his hand and asks won’t he stay with her? She was still scared. Shane says he will send more guard over. Rest easy. There won’t be any more danger. Gillian says alright then. Go deal with his work first. She covers herself with a blanket. Shane looks at her and just says hmmm. Gillian looks at him and says good night. When she was alone Gillian says to herself that was a close call.  She nearly exposed herself.  Shane definitely suspects her now. She has to be more careful from now on. She cannot be kick out before they even get married.

         When the next morning come, Shane was in the garden with Mark when Gillian come carrying a cup of soup. Gillian says she made tremella and lotus seed soup. She asked him to have some to soothe his throat. Shane saw spider Shane told Gillian to look out. She screams and falls to the ground, but she still manages to hold the cup not even single drop come from the soup. Shane thinks when danger strikes, she protects the belongings first her physical reactions faster than her mind. and her movement incredibly steady nothing like a spoil heiress. Shane says she has quite a steady hand. Gillian says she don’t know she just instinctively shielded the soup. She spends ages making it. Mark asked if she was okay. He says he will get rid of the spider right away. Mark helps her to stands up. Gillian says she was fine. She just hates bugs. Shane asked her to get inside first.  He and Mark have matters to discuss. She went back with the cup of soup in her hand. When the two of them alone Mark says did, he has him put the spider there on purpose. Shane says when ordinary people face that they either drop things and run or panic completely. Yet she kept the bowl steady and dodge the danger precisely. Does that seem normal to him? Mark says so he was testing her. But she really looks timid. Shane says the more flawless a disguise is the more suspicious it is.  He asked to dig up every detail of her past and track all her movement since she moved to the city three months ago. Leaving nothing out.

           Gillian was in the kitchen. She was talking with Kerri. She asked if Shane already suspect her. Gillian says she reacted fast last night and burst into tears. He has no solid proof for now. But she thinks he was started to investigate her. Kerri says she was totally love-struck. She told her not to play the naïve girl. Now, every step is a risk. Why not just tell him the truth. She was Phantom. What could he do to her. Gillian says no way. If he finds out that she was ruthless Phantom, he will definitely hate her.  She was still trying to win his heart. She heard put step. She told Kerri that he was there. She off her phone and started to cut the apple on the chopping board. When Shane came, she says she cut her finger. She shows him and says it was hurt. In Shane’s mind in that split second the way she held the knife was a standard self-defense grip. Shane says be more careful. Shane reaches for her hand to see. She says it was nothing just a little pain. She will cut slowly from now on. Shane says in her mind is she really clumsy.  or just acting too convincingly?  At night Mark was in the study with Shane. Mark says the result was out. Her life has been completely ordinary. She is just an overlooked young lady from a wealthy family with no training in combat and no oversea experience. But. Shane asked him to get to the point. Mark says the last public mission Phantom took overseas happen exactly one day before she resigned and moved to the city. What’s more the route Phantom took when disappearing matches her moving route perfectly. Mark gives the file to Shane for him to see. Shane says when there are too many coincidences, they are no longer coincidences. Mark asked if he really believe she is Phantom? The contrast us too huge.  One is a top international mercenary, the other is a delicate timid girl. How could they possibly be the same person. Shane says they will find out soon.

         Shane says he will attend the hotel opening ceremony at Summerset Villa tomorrow in person. Travis men will definitely seize this chance. He told to coordinate with the hotel security and set up full defenses in advance. Mark says was he putting himself in danger to expose her identity. Shane says he will never give anyone who covets the Dragon Abyss Project a single chance. Mark says he will make arrangements at once. At her room Gillian was giggling while talking with Kerri. She says Shane had actually invited her to the hotel opening ceremony together. Does that mean he is starting to accept her? Kerri asked her to calm down. Asked why the sudden change? Could he be plotting something. Gillian says can’t he just be touched by her dedication and kindness. Kerrie says look at her now she3 don’t seem like a top killer at all. She just totally heads over heels for him. Gillian says alright, alright she has to go pick out a gown for tomorrow night. She will talk again later. She checks her closet.

          Shane was dress up and ready. Mark says everything was set. The security in Summerset Villa has been fully reinforced, and plainclothes guards are posted everywhere. Shane says good. Tell everyone to wait for his orders. Gillian slowly walks down the stairs. She was wearing a tube style long white long gown. Shane was looking at her while she was coming down. Gillian asked if she look nice. She picked that dress specially. Will she embarrass him? Shane says it was passable. Gillian says to her mind he was definitely moved. All her gentle acting these days hasn’t been for nothing. He is finally willing to take her to a public event. A little more effort and he will fall for her for sure. Mark says to herself she absolutely gorgeous. No wander the boss was distracted. But knowing about his plan to test her. He cannot help but worry for her. Shane says they are heading out. Gillian says let her help him. She pushes his wheelchair. Inside the car Gillian was looking at the way. She says in her mind the hotel is in a remote area. Will Travis men make a move tonight? Gillian looks at Shane who was sitting beside her. 

         Travis receives called that saying Shane has seat off. Only he, Mark and the young lady from the Walsh family are in the car. Travis says no one else? The person on the phone says no. They kept watch along the route and spotted no suspicious vehicles or people. Travis says what about that skilled female fighter. The one who took down their men in the parking lot last time. The person on the phone says they haven’t seen her. Could she be that young lady from the Walsh family? Travis says that overlooked young lady from the Walsh family? A spoiled little lamb? There is no way she is a fighter. Impossible. He put the cigar on his mouth. The person on the phone says then could she be hiding somewhere out of their sight. Travis says whether she is hiding or not they’ve laid a tight trap at Summerset Villa. They will kill two birds with one stone tonight. Shane and that mysterious guardian of his, whoever she is will both die tonight. The man on the phone says rest assured sir. None of them will leave their alive. The call ended. Travis says on his mind. Shane, today he will shoe him who the real winner is.

        When they reach the hotel. Gillian was studying the structure of the hotel. She says in her mind the main building has six floors with an annex on the east and west sides. The main entrance is spacious but expose an easy target for snipers. The back door must lead to the garden a potential escape route. The rooftop overlooks the entire villa, the perfect sniping spot. If Travis is behind that he will definitely place his assassins there. Shane come at her side and asked what was she looking at? Gillian looks at him and smiles she says the hotel is so beautiful. It looks just like a castle. Shane asked them to go inside. She pushes his wheelchair. There are many guests inside. Seeing them come some are started whispering. One says that was Shane. Even more handsome than in photos. One asked who’s the woman beside him? His fiancée? One says look at Shane. He was so handsome. What a pity he is already engaged. One says just that neglected second daughter of the Walsh family. She is not good enough for him. With her background, how could she ever fit into the Ford Family? One says it’s just probably just a contractual marriage arranged by the old master of the Ford family. Once he gets tired of her, he will replace her soon enough. All of the was heard by Gillian. Gillian says to herself tired of her? Replace her? Who does they think they are? They’re already talking about replacing her before she even marries in? Shane says to himself is she truly jealous or just acting possessively? She is really throwing herself into this role. How much of her affection is real.

        One of the guests come forward he was holding a glass of wine. He congratulates Shane on the grand opening of Summerset Villa. Shane was the largest shareholder. They will count on him going forward. Shane accepted the glass of wine. One more comes and gives a toast to him. He says their company was very interested on his new energy project.  He says how about arranging a detailed discussion sometimes? Shane accepted the glass of wine again. But he didn’t drink any of it. One says he was holding the drinks, but he didn’t drink was he snubbing them? Gillian says in herself does he not want to drink or he cannot? Stomach issues? No, she checked his background. He has no stomach problems. Shane says he was not in a state to drink today. As his fiancée, would she drink on his behalf? Gillian nods her head. She says dear guest she was Gillian, Mr. Shane’s fiancée. he is not feeling well so she will drink on his behalf. Cheers to everyone. One says Shane was a lucky man such a beautiful fiancée to drink in his place. Gillian says it was her duty. Shane says she have quite a tolerance for alcohol. Gillian says not really, she can only drink a little. Shane asked her to come with him. Gillian asked where to? He says he will introduce her with some people. He holds her hand. Gillian says in her mind he held her wrist. It’s just a wrist but that counts a s taking the initiative, right? Gillian drink after drink. She says in herself that was the eight glass already. why does he keep moving around. Is he doing that on purpose. One says his fiancée can really hold her liquor. She had ten glasses and barely blushes. Gillian says no, she was about to pass out. She walks swaying. She landed on Shane’s body. She says her head was spinning. Shane says once Travis assassin’s strike he will see if Phantom shows up.  The he will know the truth about her. Shane says he will take her back to her room.

          Shane sent her to her room. She strips on her legs and fall in Shane’s arms. Gillian says Shane’s heartbeat it was racing so fast. Shane says she was imagining things. He helps Gillian to seat properly on the edge of the bed. Gillian asked Shane if he does not like her? Shane says what makes she say that? Gillian says he never really looks at her. His eyes are cold when he faces others and they’re just as cold when he looks at her. She can’t help but think he don’t have feelings for her. She knows she was not good for him. Her own family cast her aside.  and people outside say she was nothing but a useless ornament. But she truly, truly like him. Shane says to his mind is that all an act for him? He bends closer to her. Gillian says in her mind by is he getting so close all of the sudden. His eyelashes are so pretty. His nose is so straight, and his lips look so kissable. Gillian cannot control herself and kiss   him. Shane says in his mind did she just kiss him? Shane seat straight on his wheelchair. Gillian says he was blushing. The tip of his ear reddens. He says she just imagining things. Gillian says she was not drunk she can hold ten cups easily. She only had a little bit tonight. Shane says on his mind she really is drunk. He tacks in her in bed and asked her to sleep now. Gillian keeps murmuring “I really like you.” Shane was silently asking Gillian if her affection is genuine or he was merely a target on her mission. He went out. Outside the room Mark was waiting for him.

          Shane asked Mark if everything was ready.  Mark says yes. All hotel security is in position.  and they’ve secured the rooftop. Travis men should have already sneaked inside. Shane and Mark start moving too. Travis men were moving down. One of his men called him and says all of their people are in position. Shane went to the rooftop swimming pool. The open space is perfect to strike. Travis says what about that woman.  Has the skilled female fighter shown up? the man says no sign of her.  They’ve kept watch the entire time and spotted no suspicious figures. Travis says it seems she isn’t there. He told to make sure Shane dies tonight. The man says understood. After the called the man instruct the others that the target is on the rooftop. Confirm his identity and strike directly. Then sudden the light went out. The sound of fallen body on the ground can be heard. The man asked what was going on. When the emergency light on they saw a black-suit woman standing with a Swiss knife on her hand. The man asked who she was. The woman says she has been waiting for them for ages. The man says she was the one who protecting Shane. The woman says guess? The man says move out! kill her! The group of men started to attack her. She knocks them out one after another. One manages to stub her in her back. She killed that man. She says she let her guard down. One man left she bended down. The man asked who she was. She says he talks so much. And knock him down.

           At the rooftop Shane and Mark are waiting. Mark says the agree time was come. Travis men still haven’t shown up. Shane asked any updates from security? Mark says nothing everything seems normal.  In fact, it’s strangely quiet. Shane heard something. He asked what that noise was.  Mark says he will check. On the radio one of the securities called Mark and says they found a large group of men in black in the stairwell downstairs. All of them are unconscious.  Over thirty in total. Shane heard it. Mark says what? The security says all are subdued. The methods were clean and precise. The attacker was gone by the time they arrived. Shane says Phantom. It was her. Shane rolls his wheelchair to the scene. Shane says she really did come. Mark says but how did she know they are there. They never told her their plans.  Shane says Gillian. He found asked to go to her room now. Mark push Shane wheelchair in a hurry to Gillian’s room. Shane found Gillian in her room in deep sleep. She was smiling. Shane tries to call her up. In her sleep Gillian says hmmmm, stop messing around. Then she covers herself with a blanket. Mark says all the attackers have been detained. Shane signs his hand and says he knows. Mark says Miss Gillian has been asleep there the whole time. Shane says in himself Phantom cannot be her. Mark says the old master chose her as his fiancée, so her background must be spotless. Maybe he overthinking this? Shane says in his mind Phantom definitely appeared tonight and Gillian really stayed in this room sleeping. One person cannot be in two places at once. Could he have been wronged all along. Shane touches the blanket. Shane says did he misjudge her? Then he asked to book another room next door for him. They went out.

          After they went out, Gillian opens her eyes. She sat on bed with agony. She says lucky she didn’t lift the blanket. Her bloody suit was hidden under the bed. She stands up and went to the bathroom. She opens the shower to clean up the blood on her back. After cleaning she bandage herself. She bit a piece of cloth to suppress the sound. Then she wears her bathrobe. Kerri called her. She was checking how was she asking if she was hurt. Gillian says just a minor injury. She was fine. Kerri says minor injury? She always pushing herself too hard. Gillian sigh and says a cut on her back and she already bandage it. Kerri gasp. Gillian says he was definitely testing her. Bringing her to the opening ceremony getting her drunk, luring Travis men out. He wanted to see if Phantom would show up. Kerri says she told her that sudden change his attitude was suspicious. Gillian says luckily, she took a sobering pill in advance. It was a close call. Kerri says she really going all out for Shane. Gillian says if she doesn’t ease his doubts, he will never let his guard down around her and he will never grow to like her. Kerri says does she want his affection that badly? Gillian says she wanted it for a long time. Shane was just finished showering. Mark called and said one of the attackers was awake and says their attacker was a woman in tight black clothes and a mask with extraordinary fighting skills. Shane asked about the surveillance cameras. Mark says all footage was destroyed. Mark says he also mentioned one of their men sliced a deep cut cross the woman’s back. Shane says so she was injured. Mark says yes. Shane ended the call and said damn it! He faster changes her clothes and sits back to his wheelchair. He says he must lift the quilt to check her back. He was rolling his wheelchair when someone knock on his door. When he opens it was Gillian on her robe crying calling for his name.

          She runs toward him and embraces him. Gillian says she wakes up and found he was gone. She was all alone in the room. She was so scared. She says she asked the front desk and found out he was there. She thought he left her behind. She asked Shane if he was going to abandon her? Shane says in himself if she really had a wound on her back, she would never dare come to him like this. Shane taps her back. Gillian looks at him and says he was holding her so tight. Shane in his mind says with a wound on her back this embrace would definitely hurt her.  But she doesn’t flinch or tense up at all. Could it really not be her? Maybe he suspected the wrong person all along.  Shane says he won’t leave her. Gillian eyes lit up and says really? Shane says hmmm and nods his head. Gillian says then don’t sneak away again. Shane brings her back to her room again. Gillian lay on her bed and asked Shane if will stay for the night. Shane says he will. Gillian closes her eyes. Shane wheel on the couch and lay there. In his mind he says does she truly love him or she just hiding her identity too well. While closed eyes Gillian says it hurts so much. Why did he hug him so tightly. She was really out of her mind.  She was overjoyed just from a simple hug, yet she dared not make a sound even when her wound got pressed. She was completely head over heels for him. He said he wouldn’t leave her.   Does that mean he has started to like her, even just a little bit?

         Next morning they are eating in the Villa’s restaurant. Mark asked if she did sleep well last night. Gillian says very well. She slept straight through till morning. Mark told Shane that the car was ready.   They can leave right after breakfast. Shane told Gillian that she drunk a lot of last night. He asked if she has a headache? Gillian says not at all. Shane says then, does she remember anything after they got back to the room? Gillian asked what happened? Shane remembers the way she kissed him last night he was drinking a milk and almost choke. Shane says anything. Gillian asked if she did something silly while drunk. He can tell her. Shane says hurry and eats. They’re heading back to the old residence today. Gillian continues to eat her fruity oatmeal breakfast. Shane says grandpa 70^th birthday is coming. and they need to make preparations in advance. Inside the car on the way back, Gillian was saying in her mind why Shane didn’t look at her. Was he still suspicious of her? She sighs, look at him and called his name. She asked if he was in a bad mood today? Shane looks at her and says no.  She pouted and said he never look at her. Shane says he did.  She asked for how long? Shane answered one second. Gillian says one second doesn’t even count. Shane says that was enough. Mark who was driving look at them in the rear mirror and says to himself the way they walk it’s just like a couple flirting.

        When they reach, Gillian push Shane wheelchair and says wow the old mansion has such a wonderful charm. It’s far prettier than aa modern villa. The osmanthus smells amazing too. Shane says mind her words and behaves herself. Gillian says got it. Old Master Ford welcome them. He says finally his grandson was home. Gillian remind herself to stay poised and demure. Just like a virtuous wife. Shane greets him. Mr. Ford looks at Gillian. He says she must be Gillian from the Walsh family. What a lovely girl. He holds her hand. He says she and Shane make a perfect match. Gillian says hello Mr. Ford. The old man says no need for formalities. Called him grandfather. She was practically part of the Ford family now. Gillian called him Grandfather. Mr. Ford says Shane is always cold and reserved he asked Gillian to be patience with him. He was soft-hearted deep down. He told her to take initiative more, and he will back her up. She says thank you to him. Mr. Ford asked Mark to bring out the butter cookies he hid and let Gillian have a taste. He specially had the chef make them. They are wonderfully sweet. Mark run toward the house.

          While they are eating Mr. Ford was serving Gillian food on her plate. He told her to eat more. It was good for her. Gillian took a bite and said thank you, she says that was delicious. Shane saw a sauce in the corner of Gillian mouth. He wipes it by his hand. Gillian blushed. Shane says she had sauce on her face. Gillian says to herself did he just wipe her mouth for her? She continues to drink her soup. Mr. Ford was looking at the two of them. Then he says back on his days he and their grandmother were just like the two of them. It’s a pity she passed away early leaving him all alone. Gillian says they will keep him company. Mr. Ford says that was not enough. He wanna see the two of them get married. Get their married certificate and have a chubby grandbaby. Only then he will rest easy. Mr. ford leans closer to Gillian and says let him ask her something. Have the two of them shared a bed yet? Gillian was got shocked. Shane also called his grandfather. Mr. Ford says he was just asking out of concern. He was already 30 and still unmarried. He was worried sick. Gillian says they sleep in separate rooms. Mr. Ford looks at them one from another. He says separate rooms? He looks at Shane and says boy, are you alright? Shane called his own grandfather. Mr. Ford says look what a nice girl Gillian is. Why aren’t he making progress. When he was at his age his father was already old enough to run around on his own. Gillian was thinking why does grandpa say everything so openly? Mr. Ford called Gillian and said let him teach her a trick. He says don’t spoil a man too much. Play hard to get, make him chase her. When he courted their grandmother. Shane called him. Mr. Ford says what? He was sharing useful advice. And she could try going in while he was taking a shower. Gillian covers her ears and says grandpa please stop. Mr. Ford says alright. Then he asked for them to have a toast. It’s just the three of them there today. Gillian, say she toasts with him. then she took another. Mr. Ford put a glass of wine in front of Shane saying that wine was especially for him. Shane asked what type of wine that was. Mr. Ford says take a guess? Shane was thinking what was his grandfather up to today? He looks so mischievous. He took the glass and drink the wine in it. Mr. Ford smile and says that’s the spirit. Then he asked then to eat more dishes. He asked Gillian to slow down. No one is going to take it from her. Gillian was munchkin a chicken drumstick. She says the food there is just too good. Mr. Ford says eat as much as she like. He told her to come often, and the chef will cook all her favorite dishes for her every day.

          In their room Gillian comes out from the bathroom finished showering. Wear her pajamas and drying her hair with a towel. Shane was laying on the side bed. She asked Shane if he would like her to dry his hair? He says no need. Gillian touches his hair and says he will get a headache if she sleeps with a wet hair. She started to rub his hair with the towel she was holding. Shane tightens the grip from the blanket. Gillian notices something wrong was with him. She says he was burning up. She touches his forehead and asks if he has a fever. Shane grab Gillian’s hand and hold tightly. Gillian says he was hurting her. Shane says don’t she know what’s happening? Gillian shakes her head and says she don’t. Shane stands up then fall on the bed. Gillian says in her mind his legs. He almost stood up just now. Did just imagine it? Shane grab Gillian hands again and pull her to him. He pins her on the bed. Gillian asked what she was doing. Shane shallow hard and let go of her. He sat on his wheelchair and put to the bathroom. Outside the room Mr. Ford was slowly walking toward the bedroom door. He presses his ear to the door trying to listen on the movement from inside. He smiles. Mark was beside him. He says aren’t he being a little too hasty? Mr. Ford says hasty? That boy drags his feet at everything. If he doesn’t give him a little push when he will finally marry Gillian? He has been waiting for a great grandchild for ages. Mark says but the young master. Mr. Ford stops him and says relax the medicinal wine is harmless. Just a little something to stir things up. They started to walk away from the room. Mr. Ford says in the few days, he will arrange their wedding.

         In the bathroom Shane says the old man actually drugged him just to make things happen between them. He put his head on the open faucet with cold running water. Shane says damn it! The medicine is too powerful. He says she cannot go out. He will lose control if he does. Inside the room Gillian was asking if he was okay. He didn’t answer. He keeps shallowing hard. Gillian was walking back and fort inside the room. she says it was been forty minutes since he was there. Could he have passed out in there. She knocked on the door calling his name and asking if he was okay. She says if he didn’t answer her, she will be coming in. She opens the door. Shane was inside the bathtub. Soaking himself in water. Gillian asked what was wrong with her. Shane asked her to get out. But instead of walking out she walks closer to him. She bends down. She says he look terrible. She touches his forehead asking if he has a fever. Shane grabs her hand and says he told her to get out and leave him alone. Gillian told to herself he was definitely been drugged. Gillian says she will go get a doctor. Shanae pulls her hand. She falls down inside the bathtub. Shane says she walk in on her own. He told her not to blame him. Shane started to kiss her. Gillian remind herself to pull herself together. He is not in his right mind. She cannot take advantage of him. Even though she wanted that. No! that is not the time. Gillian holds Shane on the collar of his robe and says snap out of it. But Shane kisses her again.

        In the luxury building Travis throw his phone. Lance was kneeling on the floor. He says he says the operation in Summerset Villa was failed again. all thirty of their men were taken down. Travis says a single woman defeated thirty of his people? Lance says yes sir. Travis pour brandy on his glass. He says he cannot get hold of the Dragon Abyss Project nor can he kill Shane. A woman has messed up the scheme he spent three years planning. Lance asked if they should call quits for now? That woman was far too strong. Their men stand no chance against her. Travis throws the glass and says quit? After all the money, connections and resources poured in, he dares suggest that?  Travis on the projector. Profile of the man appeared. Lance says that is Scorpion. Travis says the fourth-ranked assassins of the Shadow Organization, second only to Phantom. He has never failed a mission.  and is ruthless beyond measure. Even seasoned mercenaries tremble at his name. A man went out from the corner. He says Mr. Travis, finally thought of him. He poured himself brandy in an empty glass. Scorpion says he was waited for three years. Three years ago, Phantom broke three of his ribs in South Africa. He spent half a year in the hospital. He never forgotten that debt. Travis says the woman beside Shane is almost certainly Phantom. He was ninety percent sure. Scorpion says that make sense. No one else but her could have ruined his plans time and again. Travis told Scorpion that his mission this time is not just to kill Shane. He wants him to get rid of Phantom too. She has cause him too much trouble. Scorpion play a knife on his hand. He says he will do it, but double the pay. Travis says deal. Scorpion asked what public, engagements do Shane have coming up? Travis says tomorrow night the 70^th birthday party of the Old Master of the Ford family. Scorpion says a birthday feast? Crowded and chaotic, the perfect place to strike. He will put a bullet straight through Shane’s head. If Phantom dares to stand in his way she will die right alongside him. He finished the wine in the glass and went out.

            The day of the birthday party, Shane come along side with Gillian. Gillian was thinking even though nothing really happened last night, it’s all her fault. She shouldn’t have run in. Now, things are so awkward. He must think she was desperate and throwing herself at him. Whispering started to spread toward the guess. One says that was Shane. He heard his legs still aren’t right. He has to use a wheelchair. One says yeah what a shame. The heir to such a huge family business and he is a cripple. A cripple is bad enough but he also heard he married that neglected girl from the Walsh family. Her stepmother couldn’t wait to kick her out. He guesses they’re just settling for each other. Gillian forms a fist on her hand. Shane steps forward and says Gillian looks pretty today. But at an occasion like that isn’t enough. The smile on Gillian’s face vanished. The aunt says she need real skills. Didn’t the Walsh family teach her proper lady-like manners? Well, she guesses it’s understandable. No mother and all. Her husband and daughter forward too. His uncle says he was not trying to pick on him, but he was in a wheelchair. Grandpa still puts him in charge of the Dragon Abyss Project? Can he even carry on the family line. Whispering started to grow louder. He says what’s the future of the Ford family? His cousin asked Shane if he want her to introduce him to some wealthy heiress? Much better than some unwanted wild child. Gillian says to herself says anything about her but not him. She makes her hand into a tight fist. Then she says aunt Goergia, Third uncle, Lucy.  Georgia says what? Did they say something wrong. Gillian says she says she has no manners? She would like to ask, is gossiping right in front of someone considered good manners? The smile on their faces gone. Georgia’s face change color. Gillian continues she says Third Uncle says Shane cannot manage the Dragon Abyss Project. She like to ask, did he double Ford Corp’s market value in the last three years? No, Shane did. A man in a wheelchair doubles the company worth. What has he a man standing on two legs achieved? He got anger and says you little brat! Gillian called out Lucy and says thank you for offering to introduce Shane to some heiresses but no need because there’s no one in this world who like him more than she does. And no one more suitable for him than her. They can say what they want about her but not him. He was her fiancée. And the heir of the Ford family. All of that was heard and seen by the old master. He looks at her proudly. He says to himself good girl. That boy Shane really hit the jackpot. Shane says to himself is she protecting him? The family of three when away.

         When they are gone Gillian turn into a panic says to herself oh no, oh no! She blown her cover how can a gentle, timid little bunny publicly confront elders like that. Will Shane think that she was too aggressive and not obedient enough? Gillian says she was too impulsive. She says sorry. She shouldn’t lose her temper and ruined the birthday party. Shane says no need to apologize. She was right. They have no right to talk about his business. And no right to insult her. There’s no need to be intentionally timid and pretend to be someone she was not. Gillian smiles. Shane says she was fine as she was. Gillian says really? Does he not think she was to fierce or rude?  Shane says not at all. One whisper says seems Mr. Shane really cares Miss Gillian. He is usually so cold, but he is completely different with her. Gillian started to push his wheelchair again toward the main hall. Gillian says she didn’t actually wanna get angry, but when she heard then mocking his legs and scheming for his position, she just couldn’t help it. People can say what they want about her but not about him. Shane turns around his wheelchair and says why does she protect him so fiercely? Gillian says because she like him. Realizing what she says. Her eyes widen and say she means they’re in a contract marriage so of course she has to protect the Ford family and him. Shane makes a tiny laughed.

          While wheeling him inside she keeps checking the area. Four entrances to the ballroom all guarded but today’s birthday party, lots of people, easy for few hitmen blend in. Still, need to stay alert.   Bunch of waiters come. Gillian was looking all of them. She saw man waiter whose hands was on his back. She says in mind that guy’s right hand is he holding something. She says a gun. She reaches the back of her dress and says damn! She forgot she wearing a dress today. No place to hide a weapon. The waiter took his gun and says Shane today is your death day. The guess started to run from different places. Gillian sassy is she show her skills Shane will definitely hate her or deceiving him and kick her out of the Ford family and ended that contract marriage. Gillian shouted watch out and cover Shane with her body. The sound of the gun fire can hear. Shane Gillian’s name. The bullet hit her left shoulder. The hitman says annoying woman! He aims the gun on her. She turns her face to look at the man. The man stops for a moment upon seeing her face. The door open. Mark and his men come in. Mark says protect the boss! Get the man! The hit man startled and started to run away. Hank and his men chased after him. Grandpa Ford shouted Gillian is hurt! And asked to call doctor quickly.

          Shane was holding Gillian in his arm on the floor. Gillian says it hurts so much. Shane was screaming her name. He asked her not top sleep and look at him. Shane asked to call an ambulance. Mark dialed the number. Shane says in his mind that quick reaction proves she is no ordinary person. Maybe she really is Phantom. She could have dodged. Why did she stupidly take a bullet for him. In the hospital Shane was stay by Gillian side the whole time. The door of the hospital room open. Mark come in. He says he was there in the entire night he asked Shane if he want to have some rest. Miss Gillian is still unconscious. Shane says no need. Mark says then, he will get something to eat. Shane just says hmmm. Mark went out again. Shane wheel near Gillian he says her hands don’t look like hands that only do housework.   The placement of those scars looks more like they’re from long term knife handling. He remembers the group of men on the staircase in Summerset Villa.  He says as Phantom why did she stay by his side? Is it also for the Dragon Abyss Project? Shane wheel near the window and look outside. Gillian opens her eyes. She saw Shane’s back. She was thinking if he was been in her side all along? She says glad the bullet just grazed her. Shane turns around and saw that she was awake. Gillian says was he been there the whole time? Shane wheel beside her and asked how does she feel? Does the wound hurt? Was she uncomfortable anywhere? Gillian smile and says it doesn’t hurt. Shane says a bullet grazed her. Of course it hurts.

       Shane asked why she jump in front of that bullet for him? Gillian says because she cannot let him get hurt. Shanee says but she got hurt herself. Gillian says better her than him. Her phone on the table rings. The called says Kerri. Gillian says don’t answer it. Shane says she was not in the position to reach it. He will get it. Shane answered it with the speak. Kerri asked Gillian of she was crazy? She the third-ranked assassin Phantom chose to get hurt just to save a man without blowing her cover? Thank God the bullet hit her shoulder What if it hit her heart? Does she have a death wish? Gillian tries to reach the phone. The phone fall on the floor. Gillian didn’t know how to explain it to Shane. She says to herself she was so dead. How can she lie her way out of this? Shane called her name. She says hmmm. Shane says she was Phantom. Gillian says to herself the thing she feared most has happened. Looks like she cannot talk her way out of that. Gillian looks at him and says yes, she was Phantom. Not the neglected daughter of the Walsh. Not some soft little bunny who only knows how to make soup and act cute. But she doesn’t have any other motives she genuinely like him. Protecting him was her choice. She asked him to please believe her. It’s okay if he cannot accept it, if he feels deceived and want to call off the engagement she will agree to everything. She won’t bother him.

        Shane remembers all the small interaction they have. He laughs and says who said he wanted to call off the engagement? Gillian looks at him and says he was not kicking her out? He doesn’t hate her for lying to him? Shane says the identity of Phantom is far more useful than being just an ordinary heiress of the Walsh family. He was looking for Phantom to protect him up close. having her by him side is perfect. Gillian happily jumps off from the bed. But she strips off. Shane catches her with his two arms embracing her. He accidentally stands up. Gillian looks down on and says his legs? His legs are fine?  He was been lying too? Shane says yes. Gillian says he fake a limp, she fake being weak. They really are a perfect match. Shane smile. He helps her to get back to the bed and sat on his wheelchair again. Gillian asked how long has he been faking. Shane says three years. Gillian asked what happened back then?  Shane three year a go a mole inside the Ford family colluded with Travis to tamper with his car. After the accident he almost permanently crippled. The doctor said recovery was unlikely, but she spent six months and managed to heal his legs completely.  After he recover, he chose to continue using the wheelchair. It was the only way to make the mole let his guard down, thinking he was really disabled. Grandpa is old. The Ford family cannot fall into chaos. And the Dragon abyss Project definitely cannot fall in the wrong hands. He had to flush out the mole. Gillian says so why he was telling her all that now? Shane says because she confesses to being Phantom and he remember what she says earlier that she genuinely like him. He says she have no other motives toward him. Gillian says does that mean they’re swapping secrets? Shane says he suppose so. Then she asked what are they now? Shane says what does she think? Gillian says contract spouses? Shane smile and says hmmm. Gillian smile and say to herself it’s not just like contract spouses but the word spouses still mean something.

         Night come, Scorpion went back to Travis place. His left hand was wounded. Travis stands up and says failed again? Scorpion says yes. Travis says didn’t he say he never miss? Scorpion says she didn’t expect that woman beside Shane to be Phantom. She is been disguised as his fiancée, hiding right under their noses. Travis says what? That neglected girl from the Walsh family is Phantom? Scorpion says her skills, her speed, and that look in her eyes, he wouldn’t mistake it. It’s her. The woman who broke three of his ribs in South Africa three years ago. Travis sat down. Travis says he spent three years invested over a billion dollar all to get the Dragon Abyss Project. And now, he was telling him Shane has a top-tier global mercenary protecting him? Scorpion says with all due respect, with Phantom around, no one can touch Shane. She is ranked third in the mercenary list. He was fourth. He cannot beat her. The phone on the table ring. Seeing the number fear cross his eyes. Travis answered the call. The caller asked when will he get the Dragon abyss Project? Head office has asked three times. If he cannot get it, step down from his position now. Travis says yes, yes of course he will get it as soon as possible. The caller says he was giving him one more month. Within one month, if he doesn’t have the Dragon Abyss Project he was on his own.

           After the call ended Travis slum the phone on the table. He says one month! what can he do in one month? With Phantom in the way even he cannot beat her. What he was supposed to do? Message pop up on his phone. The message from Lance the VP of the Ford Industries a key insider for the Dragon Abyss Project. With his help, getting the project will be easy. He says if Shane thinking having Phantom makes his invincible? A landmine has been buried right beside him. Thinking of that Travis smile. He signals Scorpion and says to cooperate with that person fully.  Make sure they get the Dragon Abyss Project. Scorpion says understood. He went out. When he was alone Travis was tapping the armchair and says Shane’s time is up. In the hospital the day Gillian was discharged she was packing her things. Shane was standing on the window. Gillian asked why he was not on his wheelchair today? Shane says there was no outsider there. Gillian turns around and sat on the hospital bed and says so, she was an insider? Shane looks at her and says hmmm. Gillian says he said no outsiders. So, in his heart, does she count as an insider? Shane blushed. He says they talk business. Gillian stands up and says okay go ahead.

        Shane took a file and says on Travis side a mole has contacted him voluntarily. Lance, VP of the Ford Industries. Gillian says he was finally ready to close the net? Shane says three years. The time has come. Gillian opens the file. She says That is the core of the Dragon Abyss Project. The lithium ore supply chain for new energy batteries. Shane says she know it? Gillian says the anonymous contact she took was to protect the Dragon Abyss Project of course she studied it. Shane asked how much does she know? Gillian says more than he thinks. But she never touches the core data that was his line, she knows. Look at the file Gillian says Lance has been in charge of that project. He knows a lot of details. If he sells that info to Travis. Shane says Travis could corner the market before them. Gillian says so he was going to plant a dud in his plan. Set a well-designed trap for them. Shane says truly Phantom. Gillian smile and asked if that was a complement? Shane says stating a fact. Gillian walks closer and says then when he states facts could he not be so stone-faced? A smile won’t hurt. Shane says he don’t know how. Gillian says yes, he does. And his smile is actually very handsome. Shane ears redden. Shane makes two back steps and says last time he said she could be herself. From now on, no need to pretend to be the perfect wife. So, is that her being herself? Gillian looks up at him and says so, can he accept her like that? Shane ears become redder and says off topic. He walks on the side and says he had someone place a fake supply chain document where Lance could access it.  He will think he is stealing the real core secret and sell it to Travis. Gillian says then Travis will invest heavily based on the fake info, spending big on mines that doesn’t exist. By the time he is broke, he will announce the real supply chain. Shane says wipe him out.

           Gillian says but Lance won’t easily believe the fake info. Shane says right.  He needs to see him visit those fake mines himself to confirm the info is real. Gillian says so he was going personally to the Sierra Mountain Mine area? Shane says yes, three days from now. Gillian says that place is remote surrounded by hills on three sides with only one road in and out. Travis don’t pass up that opportunity. Shane says he know. If everything goes well, then can catch them all there. Gillian says Scorpion will definitely be there too. He says he know. Gillian looks at Shane and says he using himself as bait. Shane says so, he needs her. Gillian says okay she promise she won’t let anything happen to him. Shane says nothing will happen to her either. Gillian says when did he get so smooth. She asked if he take the wrong medicine today? Shane says forget he said anything. Shane started to walk aways. Gillian holds his arm to stop him. She says no, he cannot take back words he said. She says he said he needs her and she remember. Shane smile. Gillian laughs and says he smiled she saw it.  Shane says she was mistaken. Gillian says she was not. Shane sat on his wheelchair and says discharge papers are ready. Gillian pushes his wheelchair and says his ears are red again. Gillian says to herself he clearly cares about her.  just won’t admit it.

         Shane and Gillian was in the study room. They are looking at the map on the table. Gillian says the Sierra Mountain Mine area is surrounded by hills on the three sides, with only one road in and out on the south side. The main entrance was open. There’s a three-hundred-meter open stretch from the highway to the mine gate. She was pointing on the map. She says if Scorpion wants to set an ambush that’s the primer spot. But he won’t attack there because it was too obvious. Their security will focus heavily that area. Shane smile while looking and listening to her. She says Scorpion isn’t stupid. He will pick somewhere they wouldn’t expect. Shane says like where? Gillian pointed a location on the map says there. Behind the mountain. There’s an abandoned small mining road that leads directly to the core of the mine area. Shane looks at the map. Gillian says it was not in the map but she checked the mine’s historical records. They mined there ten years ago and that road was built then. Shane looks at her and asked how does she know so much? Gillian says first rule of being a bodyguard know the terrain. She couldn’t sleep last night so she when through all the Sierra Mountain Mine data from the last ten years. Shane says she read all that in one night? Gillian says hmmm, she used to it.

            Shane says was she like that on mission before? Gillian says yeah. the first thing at a new place is checking the terrain, exist, blind spots, vantage points, escape routes. She has to map them all in her head. Sometimes when time is tight, she reviews while driving, memorizing as she goes, then execute immediately upon arrival. Once in South America, the target was a drug lord’s base in the rainforest. She has only four hours. She spent two hours studying satellite images and an hour on intel. Shane asked how did that mission go? Gillian says obviously succeeded. She was Phantom after all. But she got over thirty leech bites, itches for half a week. Shane smile and says in the future.. Gillian bend and says in the future what?  Shane says when she first came to his house did, she case the villa’s layout too? Gillian says she come to be his wife, not to assassinate him. Shane says so, any security loopholes in his house?  Gillian says the study window on the east side of the second floor. no security mesh outside. Can climb up the drain pipe and be inside the study in thirty seconds. Then she says she was just looking. Occupational hazard. She was really not planning to climb in and steal anything. Shane says he know. He will have security mesh installed tomorrow. Gillian says no need right. It’s not like she was going to climb in.  Shane says he was worried someone else might. Gillian says can he not say things that make her overthink? Shane says overthink what? Gillian looked at him and says overthink whether he was flirting with her? Shane says what does she think? Gillian says she think he was messing with her. Shane says then consider it him messing with her. Gillian says what does he mean consider it?

         He pushes the map and asked her to continue. They haven’t finished the defense plan.  for the back hill. Gillian looks at him and says just wait one day she will make him admit it. Shane says admit what? Gillian smile and says that he like her. Shane ears redden. Gillian, continue she say the vantage point behind the hill she suspects Scorpion will station sniper there. She draws a line on the map. Wild field vision, firing range perfectly covering the mine  core area and easy escape route. Shane was looking at her. Gillian says they need to have their people there in advance. The next morning, Lance was in Shane’s office. Shane asked Lance is the inspection of the Sierra Mountain Mine area arranged? Lance says Yes, three days from now the convoy will depart from the company, arriving at the mine area around ten a.m. Security-wise Mark has arranged thirty elite bodyguards and the perimeter of the mine area will be secure in advance. Shane says good. That inspection is very important. The success of the Dragon Abyss Project depends on that ore source. Lance says don’t worry sir he will make sure everything is arranged perfectly. Shane called Lance by his name and asked how long have he been with Ford Industries. Lance become uneasy and says 20 years. Shane says 20 years that was a long time. When Lance went out from Shane’s office he wiped his sweat on his forehead. He took his phone and sent message saying “three days. Sierra Mountain Mine area. Shane will be there.”

       In Travis place, He told Scorpion than Lance sent a message. Three days from now, Sierra Mountain Mine area. Scorpion says a mine area?  Perfect place for an attack.  Travis says not just an attack. Lance has already acquired the supply chain info. But he needs to confirm the ore source is real before handling over the complete intel. Scorpion says so? Travis says so, they attack at the mine area, force Shane to hand over the real ore source info. Once they have the supply chain then kill him. Scorpion turn around and asked what about Phantom? Travis says she will definitely go with him. He keeps her occupied. Just stall. Phantom is strong, but she is only one person. They have Travis as their inside man.   They have all the advantages. Scorpion drink the brandy from the bar counter. Scorpion says let him say something. Travis says go ahead. Scorpion says Phantom isn’t someone he can handle just by throwing numbers at her. Travis face change and asked what was he saying. Scorpion says he has his own plan. Neither Shane nor Phantom will get away.

       Kerri was talking with Gillian. Kerri says so she going to be a shield again? Gillian says not a shield a partner. Kerri says what’s the difference. Gillian says before it was her protecting him alone. Now he tells her his plans and wants her to coordinate. Shane heard it. he was standing in the stairs end. Gillian was sitting on the living room in her pajamas holding her princess bunny toy in her arms. Kerri says it’s using ant partnership. Gillian says it’s not using. When he says “I need you” the look in his eyes wasn’t that kind of. Kerri asked what kind? Gillian says that kind of he really heeds her. Not needs Phantom. Needs her. She embraces her bunny toy. Kerri asked was she already in to deep? Gillian says she been in deep since she was 13. Shane who was listening says 13? Kerri says can she have some self-respect? She was Phantom. Ranked third globally. Can she act like an assassin for once. Gillian pouted as if Kerri can see her. Gillian says can’t assassins like someone. Kerri says she can but can’t she like someone normal? Shane is an iceberg. Can she even thaw him? Gillian says he was not cold. He just doesn’t know how to express himself. Kerri says fine, fine whatever she says. But be careful. Don’t get herself hurt again saving him. Her shoulder isn’t fully healed yet. Gillian says she know.  The call ended.

        Embracing her bunny princess toy, she asked when will he thaw? Shane walks in and sat beside her. Gillian asked were he listening to her call? Shane, deny he says no. Gillian says his ears are red. Shane says the heating is too high. Gillian says it was summer. Shane stands up and about to walk. Gillian stops him by holding is arm. She stands up and walks in front of him. She says he did her, didn’t he? Kerri asked when she started liking him. She said fourteen. Does he want to know what happened when she was 13. She says that year she was kidnapped. Her stepmother from the Walsh family hired people to do it to scare her. The kidnappers locked her in an abandoned warehouse on the outskirt of the city. She was curled up in a corner thinking she was to die there. Then some came He opened the warehouse door stood there against the light, and said to her “don’t be afraid. Come with me.” That person was him. Shane says he don’t remember that. Gillian says that year he was only eighteen. Just starting to handle some of the Ford family’s affairs.  That suburban area happened to be in his company’s development plan. He was inspecting the plot when he heard the sounds from the warehouse.  He probably thought it was just a small thing he did casually. But for her it was the biggest thing in her life. Shane says so she comes to the Ford family not just because of the arranged marriage. Gillian says the arrange marriage was just an opportunity. She comes to find him. Shane says 13 until now. Ten years. Gillian says she know he probably think she is stupid throwing herself in because of a small favor from ten years ago. But he doesn’t understand. Back then, no one wanted her. Shane hands turn into a tight fist. Gillian says her stepmother wished she was dead. Her father pretended not to know. He was the first person who said to her “don’t be afraid, come with me.”

        Shane wanted to touch her face but he stops himself. He called her name and says he was not using her.  He needs her. Not Phantom, her. Tears was falling in her face and says since when did he get so smooth? Shane says she taught him. Gillian asked when did she teach him? Shane says she said “when you really wanna say it, you will.” Gillian says he was so annoying! Shane says he knows. He wipes the tears in her eyes. Gillian closes her eyes. Shane asked her not to cry. They have to go to the mine area tomorrow. Shane’s phone rings. He answered the phone next to her. Hank says there’s activity near the mine area. They found suspicious traces behind the mountain, looks like someone scouted the are in advance. Shane says understood. He told to proceed as planned. After the called Shane told Gillian that the enemy move early. Gillian says she will go get ready too.

       At dawn they are ready to go. Gillian wears her Phantom suited waiting for Shane. Shane was wheel by Mark. Shane looks at her. Gillian says what was wrong was it doesn’t look good. Shane says to flashy. Mark opens his mouth widely then he called her Miss Gillian and says she dressed like that? Gillian says cool? Mark says so cool! Cooler than any movie assassin. Gillian says thanks. Shane called Mark. Still in the dream land he answered yes. When he realized Shane called him, he jolts in his place. Shane asked haven’t seen enough? Mark says seen enough. Gillian leans forward and asked Shanee if he was jealous? Shane shallowed and says no. Gillian just laughs at him and get on the car. Before getting in she told Shane to get in. Today they catch them off guard. They arrived at the agreed time. Lance welcomes him. He says the ore source is in the hill ahead. Phantom whisper to Shane at least two at the vantage point. Activity on the left ridge too. Scorpion is behind the hill. Shane says got it. Shane taps his wheelchair few times. Mark understands it, he took his phone and senet message.

          Lance pointed the mine area and says the lithium reserves there are very impressive. Preliminary surveys show enough to supply them for over decade. Shane says good. Then a sudden explosion happens. Lance run cover himself. Mark says protect the boss. Shadow guard surrounded them. Scorpion come out from the tunnel. He called Shane and says they meet again. Shane called Scorpion and says still cannot let it go? Scorpion sats let it go? After seeing the woman beside him it’s become a fight to the death. Phantom remove her mask. Scorpion says Phantom, today no one can save her. Phantom says stay seated. Don’t move. Shane called her Gillian not Phantom. She looks at him and smile and says trust her. She

route the Swiss knife in her hand. One by one she knocks Scorpion men. Scorpion says don’t engage her directly. Stall her. The rest of them grab Shane. Mark says stay back he studied teak but he not even finished what he about to says one of the men kick him on his chest. Mark fly on the side. Gillian says on her mind he stops studying, seriously. The man was about to stab Shane but a knife flow cutting his hand. Follow by a kick from Phantom. Shanee says her wound has reopened. Gillian says it was fine. Shane called her. Gillian says she said she trust her. Scorpion charge calling her name Phantom! Phantom fight him with her one hand. Phantom says had enough? Scorpion keep attacking him. Shane was nervously watch on his wheelchair. A tip of the knife touches Scorpion neck. Phantom says he couldn’t beat her three years ago. Same now. She knocks him out. Phantom route her knife put it back on her waist.

        Mark stands up. He says Miss Gillian she took them all down? Gillian says hmmm. Mark says all by herself? Gillian says hmmm again. Mark says but aren’t she afraid of cockroaches? Gillian says cockroaches and bad guys are different. She laughed. Mark says how are they different? Gillian says can’t solve cockroaches with a butterfly knife. Mark squat down and hold hid head with his two hands. Gillian laughed and called Mark and says he was a good guy. His observational skills just need work. Mark says her way of comforting people is really unique. The other guard catch Lance and pin him on the ground. Police come and Scorpion was arrested. Lance was kneeling in front of Shane holding by two guards. Shane says he was been with the Ford Industries for twenty years. The company treated him well. Why? Lance says treated him well, after he took over, he sidelined him made him a vice president in name only. He gave twenty years to Ford Industries and what did he get? Some young punk gets to lord over him?  Shane says so, he sided with outsiders to go after the Dragon Abyss Project? Lance says he was just trying to get back what’s him. He contributed to making Ford Industries what is today. Shane says don’t think he don’t know he don’t have the nerve to do this on his own. There is someone behind him. Lance says she don’t know what he was talking about. Shane says a small VP like him daring to do this?  Shane asked him to tell who was his backer? Shane says fine, he helping Travis steal trade secrets. Multiple charges, enough for over a decade in prison. Lance says he will talk. It’s someone close to the old master. That’s all he knows. Someone with a lot of power in the Ford family. He doesn’t know who exactly. All instructions came through an intermediary. He never meets him. Never heard his voice. Don’t even know if it’s a man or a woman. Shane says to himself someone close to his grandpa? Could it be his uncle Victor? The police catch all of the Shadow Organization men.

       Shane says the wound has reopen badly. They need to get her bandaged as soon as possible. Gillian says she was fine. Shane asked to let him see. Gillian says not there so many people. All the guard turn their back. Shane opens the zip on her shoulder and see her old wound. The bandage was full of blood. Shane says she called that fine.  She says that every time. Gillian says it really doesn’t hurt. Shane took his handkerchief and press it to her shoulder to make the stop the bold. Shane told Gillian to stop moving. The bleeding hasn’t stopped. When try reach home. Shane opens the car door for her and asked her to get out. After she get down Shane carry her in bridal style. Gillian asked what was he doing? Shane says she cannot walk. Gillian says she can. Shane asked if she was sure? Gillian didn’t say anything she lean her head on his chest. Seeing that Mark got shock. He says his leg. Shane says it was fine.  Mark says since when? Shane says always was. He started to walk inside the house. Mark says he was pushing a wheelchair for three years. What has he even been doing? Pushing nothing? Gillian called him and says he was a good guy. Mark says just bad eyesight, right? He says Miss Gillian don’t comfort him. He had enough shocks for one day. He squats down to pick the key that he holds grip from shock.

         Inside then house, Gillian asked Shane where he was taking her. Shane says to treat her wound. Gillian says she can do it by herself. Shane leans and says can she reach the wound on her back. Shane put her down to the sink counter tap. He removes his coat and folds his clothes until the top of his elbow and took the first aid kit.  put the medical box on the counter took some bandage and iodine. Shane told Gillian to take off her clothes. Gillian says what? Shane says the wound is on her shoulder. How else will he treat it? Gillian says she will do it by himself. Shane asked if, she was sure. Gillian pulls up the zip on her body suit. Shane holds her hand and says let him. Shane unzips her top. Seeing the wound, he says it was bad. Gillian says she used to it. It’s really not a big deal. Shane says her definition of not a big deal is concerning. Shane removes the old bandage. He started to apply the medicine using swab. Shane says tell if it was hurt. She bites her lips but says it doesn’t hurt. Shane looks at her and says liar. Shane continues to apply the medicine. Her hand forms a fist. Shane says does it hurt now? Gillian shakes her head and says a little. After cleaning he put new bandage. Gillian asked if all done. Shane says yes. He helps her to zip back her clothes. Shane called her and says he was not good at that kind of thing. Gilian asked what kind? Shane says the kind she like to hear. But if she was willing to listen. Shane holds her waist and kisses her on her lips. Gillian says he kissed her. Shane says hmmm. Gillian asked why? Shane because he wanted to say but couldn’t. So, he showed her instead. Gillian says he really are bad with words. Shane says he knows. Gillian says but his actions are good. Shane ears redden.

         In the luxurious room a man standing with a cigar on his mouth. The phone on the table buzz. The man standing was Victor Ford. The man on the phone was one of him. The man says Lance and Scorpion have been arrested. The operation at the mine area is a complete failure. Travis asked what was their next move? Victor says useless people. It doesn’t matter if they get caught. He ended the call and put the phone back on the table. Hein his mind says does Shane think catching Lance end it? The game has only just begun. Victor called his men. He asked them to call Travis and told him to lay low for a while. When the heat dies down, he will have a use for him again. After the call ended Victor says on his mind the Dragon Abyss Project. The Ford family assets they are all him. Shane cannot take them from him. In Shane place. Shane was seated beside Gillian. she was scrolling the iPad. Sher says Lance said it was someone close to his grandfather. She says she think his Second uncle is the most likely suspect. Shane says he already guess. For now, they cannot tip him off. Gillian holds his hand and said no to carry that alone. Shane looks at her. Gillian asked if he have a plan to draw him out? Shane says the real core data for the Dragon Abyss Project has always been with him. Even his grandpa hasn’t seen the complete version. That’s his uncle wants. So, he was going to let him steal it himself. Gillian asked to tell her the specifics. He will have Mark leak that in three days. He will transfer the complete Dragon Abyss data from the company’s encrypted server to a private server for easier access. During the transfer, there will be a brief window period where anyone with access privileges can get in. Gillian says he was intentionally creating a loophole for him to exploit? Shane smile and says exactly.

          Shane says but the timing, the IP address, the access primitives for that window period, will all have his touch. As soon as he makes a move, he leaves evidence. Gillian asked what he need her to do? Shane says he need her to wait him in a safe place. Gillian asked if he don’t need her anymore? Shane says this time it was different. Gillian says then she has one request. Shane asked what was it? Gillian stand up bend in front of her and says if he won’t let her go, then promise her, no matter what happens don’t get hurt. Shane shallowed and says okay. After three days, in the IT room Shane, Mark and a programmer was there. The programmer says the data transfer is ready to go. It’s schedule for 10p.m. that night. The entire process should take about fifteen minutes. During that time, the server will have a brief open access period. Anyone with internal privileges can access it. All surveillance in the data center tonight will be on. Shane says don’t inform anyone. The programmer and Mark say yes, sir. Mark push Shane out to the IT room. Mark asked does he really think his uncle Victor would. Shane says that was not what he thinks. He will. Mark says but he was his uncle. If the Old Master finds out. Shane says his grandpa will know he will tell him himself. But not now.

       Victor was in the called. The caller was Travis says Lance and Scorpion are both in custody. He lost a dozen of men at the mine. Now the backer was very unhappy with him. He asked when he will deliver what he promised. Victor blows the smoke from the cigar on his mouth. He says why the rush? Shane isn’t finished yet. They don’t have the Dragon Abyss Project. What good is his impatience? Travis says of course he was impatience he sunk over a billion dollar into that.  Now, it’s all gone! Travis says if he was playing with him… Victor says play him? was he worth playing? Victor says he was just a pawn to him. Pawns don’t demand result from their Master. Travis says he knows so much about him. If he goes down, he was not coming out clean. Victor asked if he was threatening him? Travis says no a treat. A deal. Give him way out and he give him the Dragon Abyss Project. Victor says tonight Shane is transferring the complete Dragon Abyss data from the company server to a private server. During the transfer, there will be a brief window period. Anyone with access can get in. Travis asked if he was sure? Victor says the intel is solid.  He will send him the exact timing and IP address. He told him to go himself.  Get the data and he will get him out safely. Travis says why he cannot do it by himself. Victor says because he cannot leave evidence.  within the Ford family. But he was different, he has no way back. Victor told Travis that is his last chance. Travis says fine. this time hi will go himself. Victor says did Shane think he won?  No! He simply walked into the trap he set for him.  Once he and Travis destroy each other, The Ford family will be his. He drinks the wine on his glass.

         In the IT room, the programmer says ten minutes until the data transfer begins. Shane asked is all the surveillance active? The programmer says all of it. Thirty-two cameras inside and outside the data center overlapping coverage. Shane asked has anyone on the access list entered the data center? The programmer says not yet. Ever second become crucial. Mark says what if no one comes. Shane says they will come. One door open. From the screen Shane saw him. Shane says Travis. mark says what?  Shane? Travis insert USB and started to copy the data. The programmer says Travis was copying the data. He asked if they should stop him. Shane says let him copy. After it was finished, he removes the USB. Shane voice can hear from the speaker. Shane called Travis and says finally he decided to come by himself.  Travis took out his gun. Shane and his men show behind him. Travis turns around and says he set a trap? Shane says if he hadn’t set a trap, would he have come? Shane says he conspired with Victor to steal the Dragon Abyss Project. Shane says he were behind the car accident three years ago. Does he think he can get away? Travis smiles vanished.

           Travis says get away? Why would he need to? Travis says Victor said he will protect him as long as he got the data. He knows how much he was paying him? a billion dollars. A billion enough for him to live like a king forever. Shane says does he not get it yet?  He was just a pawn to Victor. He has no intention of protecting him. He sent him there to take the fall. Once he was caught, he is safe. Travis says no way Victor promised him. He said he’d protect him. Shane says everything he told him was a lie. Does he think he have dirt on him? But he never even met him face to face. Travis pointed his gun to then. He told Shane to shut up! He says he don’t believe him. Mark step forward to shield Shane. Travis says he has the data. He has the Dragon Abyss Project. He holds the cards! Travis told Shane to get out on his way or he will kill him!  Mark asked Shane to stay back. Shane stops him and asked him to step aside. Shane told Travis the real Dragon Abyss data was never on the company server. Travis took the USB in his pocket. He says no way. A knife fly and hit Travis gun. The gun falls on the floor. Travis hand wounded. He screams from pain. Phantom come out from one of the sides in data center. She walks in front of Travis. She says he couldn’t touch Shane three years ago. Same now. Travis started and says she, she was Phantom? Phantom play a knife in front of him.  She says took him long enough. Too late. The police come in both direction and pointed their guns over Travis. The police called Travis and says he was under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder, theft of trade secrets and illegal possession of a firearms. Travis falls on his kneels on the ground. Police handcuff him. The police took him. The screaming for Victor’s name he says he lied to him. He said he protect him. He lied.

         Mark fall on the ground and says that scared him. What if he’s actually shot? Gillian took her knife on the floor. She put her back on his side waist. She walks toward Shane and says his uncle didn’t come. Shane says he was more cautious than he thought. Shane says next, he will likely go all out to oust him at the board meeting. He has no way back now. At the police interrogation room, the police asked Travis if he have anything else to confess. Travis says he wanted to make a statement. He says Victor Ford, the major shareholder of the Ford Industries, he was the mastermind. The car accident three years ago, stealing the Dragon Abyss Project, hiring hitmen, Victor ordered it all. The police asked if he has proof? Travis says proof? He worked for him for three years. Travis says he have recordings, transaction records, encrypted emails. If he was going to prison, he is coming with him! Travis stands up. He became aggressive the police cease him down. Travis shouted saying “Victor Ford, you are next. I’m going down, but so you are!”

        At the meeting room, one of the shareholder today’s board meetings is mainly to discuss implementing the Dragon Abyss Project. He asked if Shane can start? Before Shane even can speak, Victor says no rush. Before discussing the Dragon, Abyss Project he has a question for Shane. Shane told him to go ahead. Victor says he heard the core data of the Dragon Abyss Project was leaked. Travis was arrested yesterday and he had a copy of it. He asked Shane if knows about it. The shareholder says what? the data was leaked?  Victor says the Dragon abyss Project is Ford Industries core for the next decade. If the data got out. Shane asked Victor where did he hear that? Victor says this cannot kept quiet. Travis arrest means the company has been notified. He was in Charge of the Dragon Abyss Project. A data leak under his watch he owes the board an explanation. Victor stands up and walks in front of everyone. Victor says everyone, he knows Shane is his nephew. He wouldn’t purposely make things hard for him. But the Dragon Abyss Project concerns the future of Ford Industries. A data leak is no small matter. If not handled properly, the company’s stock, reputation, partners all will be severely affected. One of the board asked Shane what exactly happened? Shane says his uncle was right. The Dragon Abyss data was indeed stolen. Victor says he was not trying to blame him but he has mismanaged the Dragon Abyss project. He said it when he took over three years ago, he was too young, too inexperienced. Now with that incident he should no longer be in charge. One of the boards says Vice President Victor makes a valid point. Someone has to take responsibility. One says he propose suspending Shane’s duties with Victor Ford temporarily managing the Dragon Abyss project.  Shane called his uncle and says was he suggesting he should resign in disgrace? Victor says not resign but he cannot be the sole decision-maker for the Dragon Abyss Project anymore. He says he propose forming a temporary committee which he will lead to manage the project jointly. One of the boards says that proposal is worth considering. One says he was agreed. Vice President Ford has years of experience with the company. He feels more comfortable with him overseeing the Dragon Abyss Project.

        Shane told his uncle that he says the data was leaked on his watch. He asked if he was proof?  Victor sats proof? Travis was caught with the data isn’t that proof? The data came from the company server and he control access to it. Shane smile and says the data Travis had been fake. The board room turn quiet. The smile on Victor’s face vanished. He says what? Shane says he said, the data Travis had was fake. He took the file from Mark hand and says that was the real core data for the Dragon Abyss Project. It has been in his possession. Paper copy. He put it down on the table. He says no electronic backups. The data on the company server has always been a decoy. One of the boards asked what does he mean? Shane says it means, three years ago. he knows someone would try to steal the Dragon Abyss data, so he set a trap. He put fake data on the company server, waiting for the mole to steal it. Whoever took the fake data is the mole. Shane looks at Victor. Shane says Travis stole the fake data, and he knew exactly when and where to get it because someone leaked the information to him. Victor asked Shane if he was accusing him? Shane says not accusing, just stating the fact that his scheme was seen through from the start. He sent Travis to steal the data then set him up to take the fall. Victor asked if he has proof? Without proof, that is slander!

        Shane took a USB on his pocket and asked to play it. Shane says who said his uncle didn’t come himself? The cameras caught him clearly. He thought he had bypassed the data center’s alarm system. But he didn’t know the independent surveillance he set up. The screen shows Victor on the company data center. Victor asked when did he install that? Shane says three years ago, from the day he sabotaged his car, he started preparing.   Shane says the car accident three years ago. He and Travis tamper with his brakes. Shane slowly stands up from his wheelchair. He says it almost cost him his life. Seeing him standing the boards are shock. Victor says impossible! His legs. The doctor said he never walk again! Shane says the doctor said he might never stand again. He spent six month doing rehab, pushed through and got his legs working again. Then he stayed in the wheelchair, to make him drop his guard. Shanee called Victor and said he lose. Victor drops on the chair. He says to his mind does he think that is over. No. Not yet. He hasn’t lost. Shane says Travis already identified him. The police have three years of his communications, transaction records, encrypted emails. His offshore account has been frozen. Two police officer come in. They called Victor Fors saying he was under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder. theft of trade secrets and commercial fraud. The police handcuff him. Victor told Shane that he was better than his father. He was useless, just enjoying life abroad and his grandfather is a senile old fool handing the company to a kid! he won’t accept that! What makes him better than him? He helped build the Ford Industries alongside his grandfather! Shane says Ford Industries was built by his grandfather. He just stood on his shoulders. He has no right to sat that. The police took him. Old Master Ford was standing outside He called Victor’s name and said he has disappointed him greatly. Victor says sorry.

        One of the shareholders stand ups called him Mr. Shane but change it to Chairman Ford and says they support him as the new chairman. The others also say they support him. Shane stands up and went to his grandfather who was standing on the door. Shane says sorry for keeping that from him. Grandpa Ford says his legs are better That’s all that matters. Gillian who was standing on the corner started to cry. Shane walks side her and says it was over. Gillian smile and says it was over. Shane embraces her. When they are alone in Shane’s house. Grandpa Ford asked when did it start? Shane says three years ago after the accident, he started investigating. All leads pointed to him.  But he has no evidence, so he kept up the charade, waiting for him to slip up. Grandpa Ford says so he keeps him in the dark too? Shane says sorry if he had known, he would have confronted him. At that time, without evidence it would have tipped him off. He wouldn’t have taken the bait. Grandpa Ford says he don’t need to be sorry. The Ford family has wronged him. His uncle he failed to raise him right. He has always been competitive, always wanting to be first. His father couldn’t be bothered to compete, so Victor felt entitled to everything. Then his father went abroad he took over the Ford family, and he felt you had stolen his place.

        Gillian says what Victor did isn’t his fault. It was his choice. Grandpa Ford says thank you to her. He says thank you for protecting Shane. Gillian old master hands and says she will always protect Shane. That is her promise. Then Grandpa Ford asked when the two of them gonna make it official. Shane says there is no rush. Grandpa Ford tap his crane hard on the floor and says no rush! He was seventy! His uncle was on prison. His father is useless abroad. The Ford family rests on him! If he doesn’t get married soon and give him great-grandchildren how much longer does he think his old bones can wait? Gillian says he was in great health. Grandpa says great health, my foot! If he doesn’t get to hold a great grandchild soon, he will die of frustration. Shane and Gillian look at each other than smile. Mark, who was in the corner, says he will just stay in the kitchen. They’re having a family moment. He asked himself why he was even there? Grandpa Ford called Mark and asked him to come in. Mark come in holding a plate full of cut fruits. Mark offers him the fruits. Grandpa Ford asked Mark how long has he been with Shane? Mark says three years sir. Grandpa says three years and he didn’t know his legs were fine? Mark says his eyesight isn’t great. They all laugh at him.

         In his office, Mark took out a box and told Shanae that it was the item he requested. Shane tool the box and open it. Inside was a diamond ring. He asked Mark if he think she will like it. Mark says was he asking about Miss Gillian?  Shane looks at him and says who else? Mark says he thinks Gillian like him not the ring. Shane looks at him. Mark says could give her a cola can tab, and she be happy. Shane smile. Mark says rings are important. Girls loves rings. Buying that is the right call. Shane put the box inside his pocket. Then he told Mark to arrange a place for him. Mark asked what kind of place? Shane says somewhere suitable for a proposal. Mark eyes widen and excitedly say was he going to propose to Miss Gillian? Shane asked him to keep his voice down. Mark says yes, sir he will arrange it right away! Don’t worry he will find the most romantic place. A mountain top? The beach? a sky restaurant? Shane says Summerset Hills. The rooftop garden. Mark says Summerset hills? that’s their property. Security is solid. And the rooftop garden has a panoramic view of the city at night. So romantic. He asked since when did he get so smooth? Shane looks at him and says say one more word, and he was off to the Africa branch. Mark covers his own mouth.  

       Gillian was watching TV on the living room in Shane’s place. She was holding her princess bunny toy. Shane come holding a glass of milk for her. Gillian says being so attentive today, she asked what the occasion is.  Shane seat beside her. He asked her to come with him somewhere tomorrow. Gillian asked where? Shane says she will know when they get there. Gillian smile and says he was not going to sell her, don’t he? Shane say wouldn’t dare. Gillian looks at the glass that he was holding then asked Shane if there something he wanna tell her? Shane says he will tell her tomorrow.  Gillian asked why not today? Shane says because he was not ready yet. Gillian holds his hand and says okay tomorrow then. She leans on his shoulder while the hands are intertwined with each other. The next night the rooftop of the Summersets Hills was beautifully arranged pink roses was everywhere. Petal of red and white roses was carefully lay on the floor. candles were light un inside the glass so the wind won’t blow it out.

        The girl in yellow dress was crying. Her name was Kerri. Gillian’s best friend.  Kerri was crying. Mark asked him to stop crying. HE says Miss Gillian hasn’t even cried yet. If she cries first and her eyes are swollen when she comes up, she will think he bullied her. Kerri says she was happy! Her best friend is about to be stolen away.  Can’t she be happy? Mark says then can’t she be happy without messing up her makeup? Kerri told him to mind his own business! Grandpa Ford also come. He says the place was nice. He says that boy Shane finally got a clue. He was starting to think he’d be single forever. Mark says the boss isn’t even thirty yet. Not exactly a lifelong bachelor. Grandpa Ford says when he was his age, Shane’s father was six or seven! That’s what he calls not rushing! Gillian walking up the stairs accompany by one of the female staff. When she reaches the top, she saw how beautifully the venue was set up. She asked what was that? Kerri walks beside her. Gillian says she was there too? Kerri told her to go and says he was waiting for her. Gillian started to walk. She saw Shane waiting in front hold beautifully arrange bouquet of pink and red roses. He keeps breathing in and out. He looks really nervous. When Gillian was in front of him, she asked if he arrange all that? Shane says mark arrange it.  He paid for it. Gillian tears fall ang laugh. She says can he be any less romantic? Shane breath out and took the box on his pocket. Shane kneels on his one knees he says he was not good with words but there is one thing he can say. He opens the box look at her and says, “Marry me.”

        Flower petal was fallen from the sky. Gillian tears falling. She says he like him. She like him for her whole life. Shane put the ring on his finger. He stands up. Wipe the teras in her eyes. Their forehead touches. Then Shane kisses her. She kisses her back. Kerri was sobbing. Seeing her Mark was touching his pocket. Kerri asked him to give her a tissue. Poor Mark was searching on his pockets. But he cannot find any. He says he doesn’t have any tissue. Kerri asked him what those he have?  Mark touches his hair and he says he has, he has himself. Kerri looks at him. Mark says he means, he can be her tissue. If she needs to cry, she can borrow his sleeve. She has nothing to worry about it. Kerri laughs and wipes her own tears. Kerri asked if he did catch something from Shane? Mark scratches his head and says catch what? Kerri says his inability to talk smoothly. Mark laughs a bit and says he never could talk smoothly. The two laugh together. They can heard Grandpa Ford saying wonderful! Wonderful! Finally, a proposal! He waited too long for that! He told to get their marriage license tomorrow. No, tonight! Mark says master the registration office isn’t open at night. Grandpa Ford says then tomorrow. Shane embraces Gillian. Gillian asked when did he start liking her? Shane says he don’t know. Maybe the first time she called him honey.  Maybe when she took that bullet for him. Maybe when she cried and said don’t get hurt. Maybe earlier. He cannot tell anymore. Gillian hugs her tighter and asked if was that a love confession?   Shane says that was stating a fact. Gillian laughs and says he still owes her a reward. Shane asked what she want.  Gillian tip toes and says she wants him never to leave her for a lifetime. Shane says, “I do.”

 

 

 

 

                            THE END……