EXECUTIVE AFFAIRS

Episode4

THE WEB TIGHTENS

Tension spreads throughout Alex's office after Vicki's ultimatum. Ruby sits at her desk. Her mind was racing. The truth feels closer than ever. But each step forward seems to deepen the mystery. What does Vicky know? And why is she so desperate to get Ruby out of the picture?

Alex leaves the office. His expression was dark. “We'll play smart,” he said. “If Vicky knows something, we will find out on our terms—not hers.”

Ruby nodded. Even though her stomach churned with uneasiness. Alex's confidence was reassuring. But she couldn't ignore the shadow of doubt that floated in her heart.

That evening, Ruby stayed up late again. Intending to open everything that could provide an answer, she checked the company files. Cross-reference email and customer records. She was so engrossed in her work that she didn't notice the slight flicker of light from above. Or the soft sound of footsteps echoing down the hallway...

Suddenly, a voice behind her made her jump. She spun around. Breath in the throat

“Working late again?” Alex's voice cut through the silence. And Ruby stopped breathing.

“You scared me,” she said, clutching her breasts.

Alex moved closer. His blue eyes scanned her face. “I told you not to be so hard on yourself.”

“I can't sit back and wait for answers,” Ruby said. “If someone tries to sabotage us, We must stand up to them.”

Alex's lips curved into a slow smile. "You're persistent, Ruby. I like that."

Her cheeks were red. But before she could respond, Alex's phone rang. He looked at the screen and his expression darkened.

“My name is Vicky,” he said solemnly.

"Answer me," Ruby asked.

Alex hesitated then turned on the speaker.

“Alex,” Vicky's voice called out. “I hope you will reconsider my offer.”

“What do you want, Vicki?” Alex's voice was cold.

“Alright…I have proof that will change everything,” Vicky said. “Meet me at The Meridian Hotel tonight, room 1205, alone.”

Ruby and Alex stared at each other. And the call ended immediately.

"It's a trap," Ruby said.

“For the most part,” Alex agreed. “But if you have evidence, I just can't ignore it.”

"I'll go with you," Ruby said firmly.

“No,” Alex replied. “It's very dangerous.”

Ruby crossed her arms over her chest, “If this has anything to do with me. I have a right to know. Besides, you will need someone to take care of you.”

Alex hesitated and then nodded reluctantly, “Scepter, but stay with me.”

****

The Meridian Hotel is luxurious and grand. A glittering gold-accented lobby beneath crystal chandeliers. Ruby was annoyed as she took the elevator to the twelfth floor. Alex's mouth dropped open, and his normally calm demeanor was replaced with calm.

When they reached room 1205, Alex knocked hard. The door opened to reveal Vicky, perfectly dressed as always. Stepping aside to let them in, her smile faltered.

“Glad you came,” Vicky said, still looking at Ruby, “though I wasn't expecting you to bring your little pet.”

“Quit chasing, Vicky,” Alex said coldly. “What evidence do you have?” he asked.

Vicky's smile widened as she took the bottle back from the table. “Everything you need is here. Financial records…and some rather scandalous photos.”

Alex grabbed the bag and opened it. His expression darkened as he scanned the contents.

Ruby looked over his shoulder and froze. Photos show Alex having a secret meeting with a strange man. The timestamp coincided with a key date on which the company experienced a financial discrepancy.

“This is the doctor,” Alex said in a sharp voice.

“What?” he asked. Vicky asked innocently. “So someone is trying to slander you? Either way, you are experiencing problems and you too,” she pointed at Ruby.

Manika's stomach dropped. “What does this mean?”

"Oh, sweet Ruby," Vicky said with a teasing smile. “You think you just got stuck in a trance? No, darling. You are the reason this started.”

Ruby's blood ran cold. “What are you talking about?”

Vicky’s expression became serious, “In front of you, someone was pulling a string. They want to destroy you, Ruby, and they are using Alex to do that.”

****

As they left the hotel, Ruby was confused. Alex was silent beside her, his jaw tight.

"Do you trust her?" he asked, Ruby finally asked.

“Not entirely,” Alex admitted. “But we cannot ignore the possibility. Who from your past is behind this?”

Ruby hesitated, the memory of her burning her nails on the surface of the water. Spending the night under the neon lights, a shadowy figure who makes empty promises and a name that hasn't been talked about for many years.

“There are people,” she said softly, “but I think I missed that life.”

Alex stopped walking and turned to face her, "WHO?"

Ruby took a deep breath. “A man named Marcus Kane, he…he owns the club where I work. He's scary, Alex. If he is involved, we will be in over our heads.”

Alex's eyes hardened. Then we will deal with it.

****

The next day, Ruby received an anonymous message:

"You should stay in your lane, Ruby. Now everyone will see the truth."

Her hand shook as she pointed the note at Alex.

“This is over,” Alex said in a firm voice. “We can't wait for them to take the next step.”

****

That evening, Alex and Ruby confront Marcus at the posh lounge he frequents. This man was well-mannered and dignified. And his smile was ferocious as he greeted them.

“Alright,” Marcus said, his voice dripping with fake charm, “Ruby Wilson. It's been a while.”

"Stop what you're doing, Marcus," Ruby said, gathering all her courage. “Why are you targeting me?”

Marcus’ smile widened, “Honey, it’s none of your business. It's about power, and you are just a pawn in a much bigger game.”

Alex steps forward. His presence was commanding. “If you were smart you would leave now.”

Marcus chuckled. “Oh, I am not afraid of Mr. Thompson. But you must be afraid of me.”

****

Leaving the living room, Ruby felt the burden of the confrontation fall on her. Marcus wasn't being forthright. He had the resources and connections to separate everything she and Alex had ever done.

But Alex's hand brushed hers as she walked past. It's a quiet consolation that they're together in this.

And for the first time, Ruby felt a glimmer of hope.