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    Elsewhere, Bianca had deliberately arrived at Exclusive Lounge earlier than the scheduled meeting to thoroughly inspect the venue. She double-checked that the table settings were perfect, the decorations were elegant, and the waitstaff were prepared to serve the guests.

    After ensuring everything was in ce, Bianca nced at her watch and smiled with satisfaction. She was confident Andrian would be pleased with all the arrangements she had made.

    Eager to meet him, Bianca quickly picked up her phone and called Andrian.

    “Hello, Andrian. Everything is perfectly prepared,” Bianca reported with enthusiastic confidence.

    But Andrian’s response wasn’t what she had expected. He spoke in a rushed tone, as if something urgent was going on.

    “Bianca, I won’t be able to attend the meeting today. There’s an urgent situation I can’t leave. I trust you to handle the investors on your own. I’m leaving everything to you,” Andrian said, his voice heavy.

    Bianca was taken aback, a flicker of disappointment crossing her face. But she quickly realized this was a golden opportunity to fully showcase her capabilities in front of important investors – an opportunity that could make Andrian even more proud of her.

    “Alright, Andrian. Don’t worry, I’ll handle the meeting well,” Bianca replied with assurance, though deep down, she was curious about the urgent matter he was dealing with.

    Still, she didn’t dare ask further, knowing Andrian disliked being questioned during stressful moments.

    “Thank you, Bianca,” Andrian replied with relief. “I knew I could count on you. Let me know as soon as the meeting ends.”

    “Okay.”

    After the call ended, Bianca took a deep breath, trying to guess what issue had kept Andrian away. She hoped it had nothing to do with Aliana thing she wanted was for Andrian to meet that woman without her being there.

    “Miss… the investors have arrived,” Derek informed as he approached her.

    Bianca snapped back into focus and made her way to the front hall to wee the guests.

    –

    thest

    She briefly scanned the security personnel surrounding her. Two of her personal guards stood not far away, positioned strategically around the

    restaurant.

    Even though Andrian wasn’t present, her security detail remained tight as usual – something that made Bianca smile, knowing how much Andrian cared for her safety.

    Soon, a sleek ck car pulled up in front of the restaurant. Bianca stepped forward, standing poised and ready to greet. The car door opened slowly, and a middle-aged man in a crisp suit and with sharp eyes stepped out with undeniable authority.

    “Good afternoon, Mr. Alvarez,” Bianca greeted warmly, extending her hand. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person. I’m Bianca Lorraine, Vice CEO of Titan Group and the lead on the project we’re about to discuss.”

    “Good afternoon, Miss Bianca,” Alvarez replied, shaking her hand. “I’ve heard Mr. Andrian won’t be attending and has sent his trusted associate. I hope today’s meeting wasn’t too much of a scheduling inconvenience.”

    “Not at all,” Bianca replied quickly. “We’re honored to further explore this partnership. Please, let’s head inside.”

    Alvarez and Bianca walked into the restaurant, toward the private meeting room, which had been elegantly arranged with a minimalist touch.

    Inside, a long table and presentation setup awaited. Once Alvarez was seated, Bianca took her ce beside the screen and began distributing a concise document she had prepared.

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    “As outlined in the brief we sent earlier,” Bianca began while pointing at a chart on the screen, “this green energy hub project is a strategic move by Ti

    not only following the global trend but aiming to be a pioneer in the energy transition in Zenith City.”

    Group

    Alvarez nodded, listening closely.

    “And what about the financing structure and long-term returns?”

    Bianca clicked the presentation remote, revealing an ROI projection chart.

    “We’re proposing a hybrid investment structure: 40% internal capital, with the remainder from strategic investors. Assuming green energy pricing trends remain stable, we estimate an ROI of 18-22% within the first five years.”

    “That’s quite ambitious,” Alvarez remarked, stroking his chin. “But I admire the boldness.”

    “Titan Group never shies away from bold moves as long as they’re based on solid calctions,” Bianca answered firmly, but with a smile. “We’ve also put in ce a risk mitigation n to ensure investment performance stays stable, even in vtile conditions.”

    Alvarez grinned.

    “Honestly, I’m impressed. It’s rare to see such efficient and transparent presentations from young executives.”

    Bianca bowed her head respectfully.

    “Thank you for your kind words, sir. Titan Group values transparent and coborative partnerships.”

    Once the presentation concluded, they moved to the dining table to continue their discussion over lunch. Bianca maintained her graceful and friendly

    demeanor.

    “Miss… I’m a bit curious,” Alvarez said while sipping his creamy mushroom soup.

    “What exactly kept Mr. Andrian from attending today?”

    Bianca paused for a moment, unsure how to respond, as she truly didn’t know what Andrian was dealing with. Still, she quickly searched for a usible exnation to reassure Alvarez. She didn’t want Andrian to look bad in front of such an important investor.

    “Mr. Andrian had to handle an urgent issue at the internal security center, sir,” Bianca exined. “But he sincerely hopes you feel well amodated today. He’s entrusted me fully to represent thepany.”

    Alvarez gave a slow nod.

    “And that trust is not misced. I must say, this has been a very impressive meeting.”

    Bianca smiled, this time more broadly.

    “I’m d to hear that. Titan Group is very enthusiastic about building a long-term partnership with you.”

    With the praise continuing to flow, Bianca sat back slightly more rxed. Her confidence grew. In her eyes, this was a perfect victory. It was increasingly clear she was not just a valuable asset to Andrian’s projects, but an irreceable one.

    At the Kasih Bunda Orphanage, Aliana had just arrived and was warmly weed by the children as her group entered the premises.

    She stepped out of the car gracefully, still wearing her long coat, which concealed the ck tactical outfit beneath. A calm smile was etched on her face, though her mind remained upied with the n to strike Bianca-its execution drawing nearer by the minute.

    Inside the orphanage, a middle-aged woman, Mrs. Rachel, the head caretaker, greeted them warmly.

    “Wee, Miss Aliana, Mr. Nathan. It’s an honor for us to receive the Velor family today,” she said sincerely.

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    *Thank you, Mrs. Rachel,” Aliana replied calmly, nodding politely. Her voice soundedposed, as though she were fully present. In truth, every passing second in her mind was filled with thoughts of the restaurant’s back route, Bianca’s guards’ shift times, and the ideal moment to sneak away from the third orphanage.

    Aliana walked through the orphanage apanied by Nathan and Elena. She spoke briefly with some of the children, asked about their daily activities, and listened to a short presentation from Mrs. Rachel about the educational programs. Though she appeared engaged, her gaze asionally turned vacant-her focus fixed more on the ticking hands of her watch, edging closer to the critical point in her n.

    As the children began showing their crafts, Nathan approached and stood beside Aliana. His voice was soft, butced with concern.

    “Are you alright?” he asked, ncing at her face. “You still look pale.”

    Aliana nced at him briefly.

    “I just want to get this done quickly so I can rest. There’s nothing to worry about.”

    Nathan nodded, though worry still lingered in his eyes.

    “You can talk to me if you need anything. I know you’re not the type to open up easily, but… I’ll always try to help.”

    Aliana offered a small smile before redirecting her attention to the children singing together.

    “Stay focused, Nathan. You’re overthinking.”

    Nathan smiled back, though her response felt distant. He returned his focus to the children. He knew that pressing Aliana would only make her withdraw further.

    Meanwhile, Elena-who had been by Aliana’s side all morning-was beginning to sense something unusual. She noticed how restless Aliana was even in her silence, especially when the children approached. Though she still smiled politely, Elena could tell it was forced.

    After the group sat down for the symbolic donation handover and a photo session, Elena leaned in and whispered in Aliana’s ear:

    “Miss, are you sure you’re alright? I feel like… something’s troubling you.””

    Aliana turned slowly toward Elena. Her gaze was sharp but not angry.

    “I’m fine, Elena. Please… don’t ask anything more today.”

    Elena bit her lip, lowered her head, and gave a small nod.

    “Yes, Miss.”

    Time continued ticking. Aliana’s watch now read 1:47 PM. ording to Rafe’s calctions, Bianca would be reaching the final stage of her meeting with the investor. Aliana and Nathan were now en route to the final orphanage on the itinerary-Pelita Hati Foundation.

    Just a few kilometers away from arriving, Aliana nced at Elena through the rearview mirror, silently confirming to herself that Elena would need to be

    involved in the uing mission.

    Around 2:10 PM, the group arrived at Pelita Hati Foundation. The building was simple yet solid, surrounded by a small garden and clean pathways. There weren’t many children in the yard. The foundation’s head, Mr. Hudson, greeted them kindly, along with several staff members.

    “Wee. Thank you for visiting us,” said Mr. Hudson courteously.

    Aliana responded with a warm smile and followed the group into the main hall. She walked slightly behind the others, her eyes scanning quickly– locating the emergency exit, the service corridors, and possible escape routes. She mentally mapped everything.

    As the wee speech began, Aliana signaled for Elena toe closer. She whispered softly:

    “I want to go to the restroom. Escort me, but make sure the guards don’t follow.”

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    Elena looked slightly confused but quickly understood that Aliana had her reasons. She gave a small nod.

    “Yes, Miss.”

    She turned toward the personal bodyguards standing by the doorway and approached them with a polite smile.

    “Excuse me, could you remain here? Miss Aliana isn’t feeling well and needs a bit of privacy. We won’t be long.”

    One of the guards looked hesitant, but Elena quickly added:

    “We’re just going to the restroom inside the building. Nothing will happen. Besides, it would draw attention from the foundation staff if you follow us

    there.”

    The guards exchanged nces briefly before finally nodding in agreement.

    “Alright. But don’t take too long. We’ll remain on watch here.”

    “Thank you.”

    Elena smiled in relief. She nced at Aliana and gave a slight nod, signaling that the path was clear.

    Aliana stood up from her seat and politely excused herself to one of the orphanage staff standing nearby.

    “Excuse me, may I know where the restroom is?” she asked gently, her voice calm butposed.

    The staff member smiled kindly and turned to look at a middle-aged woman-the assistant head of the orphanage.

    “Oh, of course, Miss,” the woman replied with a warm smile. “To make sure you don’t get lost, I’ll ask someone to escort you. Damien!” she called firmly yet gently.

    A tall young man with a neat appearance quickly approached. His eyes were sharp yetposed, giving the impression of someone experienced in security matters.

    “Yes, Ma’am,” he responded politely, asionally ncing toward Aliana.

    “Please escort Miss Aliana to the restroom in the staff room. And make sure everything is safe,” the woman instructed in a soft but firm tone.

    “Yes, Ma’am,” Damien replied, then turned to Aliana. “This

    sway, Miss.”

    Aliana froze. She clearly didn’t want to be escorted-especially not by a man. She didn’t want anything to dy her nned escape.

    “There’s no need to escort me, just show me where it is. I’ll find it myself.”

    The woman gave a small smile, sensing Aliana’s reluctance to be escorted by Damien.

    “Damien is trustworthy, Miss Aliana. He has helped apany the Velor family on visits here for years. He’s also trained in self-defense, so there’s no

    need to worry.”

    Aliana offered a faint smile to mask her rising panic. She nced at the young man named Damien and instantly felt frustrated.

    Inside, she cursed the situation-Damien’s presence would clearlyplicate her n to slip out unnoticed, especially after thinking she had sessfully avoided the guards.

    “Please, Miss,” Damien urged again politely.

    Aliana wanted to refuse, but realizing how little time she had left, she knew she had no choice but to let Damien lead the way.

    “Very well. Thank you very much for your help,” she replied with a calm voice, though her heart was starting to race.

    14:38 Thu, 28 Aug AN

    Damien walked ahead, followed by Aliana and Elena. They headed toward a narrow corridor beside the hall.

    Aliana’s mind raced, searching for any opening that would allow her to escape.

    When they arrived in front of the staff room, Aliana and Elena entered, while Lucas stood guard outside.

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    Aliana immediately led Elena into the restroom. As soon as the door closed, she removed her heavy coat, revealing the ck dress and tactical outfit.

    underneath.

    Elena gasped in shock, her eyes widening in disbelief at Aliana’s appearance.

    “Miss… what are you nning to do? Why are you dressed like this?” Elena whispered anxiously.

    Aliana looked at Elena sharply but remainedposed.

    “You don’t need to know more, Elena. Your only job now is to make sure no one realizes I’ve left this ce.”

    Elena’s worry deepened, but she nodded slowly in resignation. Seeing the serious expression on Aliana’s face, she knew her mistress was racing against

    time.

    “I understand, Miss. But… what if someone finds out?”

    “No one will find out, as long as you can rece me properly.”

    “Rece you?” Elena’s eyes widened even more. “W-what do you mean, Miss? Why… why do I need to rece you?”