Beyond the Divorce

Rivendell was Atticus' top priority. He had given up every other opportunity, waiting patiently for this chance. The last time I saw him, he seemed confident, but Melvern's recent attitude indicated that he was certain of success.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized this situation wasn't as simple as it seemed.

Glancing at the time, I pressed the intercom button to summon Carol. After giving her a few instructions, I told her to get Lauren, who was starting work today. I would take her out with me as cover. If Melvern noticed my absence, it would not raise suspicion.

It was better to be safe than sorry.

Lauren soon appeared in my office. I looked toward her. "Come with me." I grabbed my bag and hooked her arm before heading out of the room.

As Lauren and I took the elevator down, she asked, "Where are we going?"

"I want to see Atticus," I said.

The elevator went straight down to the underground garage. I dialed Atticus' number, but once again, there was no answer. I was puzzled, wondering why he was not answering. Was his phone not with him? Seeing that the call was a dud, Lauren asked, "He didn't answer?"

"No, he didn't." I shook my head. "Come on. Let's wait in the car."

Lauren knew me well. Seeing my serious expression, she asked softly, "Is something wrong?"

"Yeah." I unlocked my car and got in. "Atticus has probably been manipulated."

"What?!" Lauren was taken aback. "What's going on?"

of the underground parking lot while explaining to Lauren

handle the preliminary project in Rivendell. He competed with Atlas day and night for that project because he

he stayed in Rivendell. The next thing to happen would be the true main event. But looking back, his

my phone rang. I quickly stopped by the side and picked

It was Atticus.

"Mr. Atticus! Are you still

still here." He

I hastily asked,

there supposed to be something wrong?" Atticus asked

"I've been hearing things."

hide anything. Between Atticus and Melvern, I

you hear that from?" Atticus

company in detail. Then, I asked Atticus straightforwardly, "Is Melvern's information

"Yes," Atticus answered confidently.

spine. "Does

"Not necessarily."