Chapter 25 Alia POV Throughout the entire day , I was so overwhelmed with spreadsheets and data reports that I missed my lunch time again . My stomach growled in protest , my phone buzzed for the third time in an hour . I glanced at the screen , It's a call from Marco .. Hey , I answered , wedging the phone between my ear and shoulder while continuing to work . " Can I call you back ? I'm kind of in the middle of something . " You said that an hour ago , " Marco's deep voice carried a hint of annoyance . " Haven't you eaten lunch yet ? " I rolled my eyes , though he couldn't see it . " I'm fine . I'll eat something later . " Alia- I really have to go . Talk later , okay? " I hung up before he could protest further . My computer screen blurred slightly , and I rubbed my eyes . " You look like death warmed over . " I looked up to see Tina standing beside my desk , holding an espresso cup . She placed it in front of me with a sympathetic smile . " Italian espresso . The real stuff , not that watered - down American nonsense . Drink it before you pass out on your keyboard . " " You're a lifesaver , " I murmured , gratefully accepting the tiny cup . The rich , bitter liquid hit my system like a bolt of lightning . ' I didn't realize how much I needed this . " At , I finally completed what I believe to be the most comprehensive research report on the Phantom Game project within the specified umeframe . My eyes were burning from staring at the screen , but when i clicked to save the final document , a sense of accomplishment washed over me . I leaned back in my chair , stretching my arms above my head until my spine cracked satisfyingly . The office had quieted as most people had already left for the day , giving me a rare moment . I gathered the printed materials into a sleek presentation folder and walked to Berti's office , knocking lightly on her open door , " Come in , Alia , " he called , looking up from her computer . " Please tell me you have good news . " I placed the folder on her desk with a small smile . " The Phantom Game analysis is complete . " Berti flipped through the pages , her eyebrows rising progressively higher . " This is … extremely thorough . How did you manage this in one day ? " I replied honestly . " Is it what you needed ? ' He nodded , looking impressed . " More than adequate . I'll email the digital copy to Roberto immediately . " She glanced at his watch . " You should head over to the Scorpione Group office now . Roberto specifically requested to discuss this with you in person before he leaves , " My heart sank . " Today ? Now ? " " He's waiting for you , " Berti confirmed . " Don't worry , I've already cleared it with HR . You can take the rest of the day off after your meeting . " I nodded and packed up my things . Walking toward the elevator , I quickly sent Marco a text : I'm going to see Mr. Robert at Red Scorpion Group now , I might get home a bit late today . Chapter 25 Marco didn't reply to the text immediately , maybe he was busy and didn't see it ? The Scorpione Group headquarters was housed in a gleaming glass tower in the financial district . As I rode the elevator to the executive floor , I couldn't shake a growing sense of unease . Roberto Fini greeted me with unexpected warmth , rising from behind his massive desk to shake my hand . " Alia Rossi ! I've been looking forward to meeting you in person . " He was younger than I expected , perhaps in his early forties , with salt - and - pepper hair and the sharp features . " Your analysis is exceptional , " he said , gesturing to the open document on his tablet . " Exactly what we needed to move forward with the Phantom Game . " " Thank you , " I replied , settling into the chair across from him. " I'm glad it meets your expectations . " Chapter Comments