The Deeper Deception

Airon's previously cold face was now replaced with a definite look of shock and concern after Helena finished throwing up. He quickly turned to the executive assistant, barking a command: "Bring her some warm water and a fresh towel. Immediately."

The assistant hurried to obey. Airon waited until the assistant had left, then looked back at Helena, who was leaning against the basin, utterly weak.

Helena's expression had brightened momentarily with the relief of having expelled the medicine, but she quickly saw the look on Airon's face—a look that indicated he was about to press her for answers.

Airon walked closer, his voice low and serious. "Helena, that was not an act. You are genuinely sick. I need you to tell me exactly what you remember about the last 24 hours."

Oh, honey. The moment I break the amnesia plot, I'm toast. This isn't a gentle second-chance novel, this is a hostile takeover. Aika's inner nerd took over. Must maintain the façade. Trauma, trauma, tears.

Helena stumbled back to the couch, pulling the cashmere tight. She forced herself to look confused and distressed, channeling the perfect victim persona.

"I... I truly don't know, Airon," she whispered, tears suddenly welling up (genuine stress tears). "I keep seeing flashes of traffic, of a bus... and then I woke up here. That's all. I don't know why I ran, or why I threw up. Everything is blurred. It's so scary."

Airon watched her for a long moment. He didn't believe the simple amnesia story, especially after her earlier outbursts. But he saw the raw, genuine distress.

"Fine, you idiot," Airon stated, his voice tight with frustration and concern. "Just rest. I'm telling you this for your own safety—you will not leave this room. I will deal with the Chairman, and I will personally vet every report that comes to you."

He stepped toward the door. "You will eat, you will rest, and you will not attempt to run again. If you show any signs of instability, I will personally have you admitted to the hospital. Do you understand, Helena?"

Helena nodded meekly, keeping her eyes downcast. "Yes, Airon."

The moment the door shut, Helena collapsed back onto the couch, panting.

Well, Chapter 4 is already exhausting. Crisis averted. I guess being grounded is better than being poisoned, Aika thought. Now I need a new strategy. Running is out. Dying is out. Time for the 'Chill, Observe, and Wait for Plot Hole' tactic.

part 2 soon............