FREEDOM WAS THE LIE

CHAPTER 2: SHE STEPPED IN

The Blackwood Building was more than rumors ever mentioned. Tall glass walls, polished floors you could almost see your reflection in, everything looking expensive without trying too hard. Lilith was impressed by such a luxury building surrounding her. Even the air inside felt different—cool, calm, controlled. Everything she imagined wasn't close to the reality of standing within the walls of such a beauty.

She adjusted her blazer and walked in properly this time, heels clicking softly against the floor.

At the front desk, a neatly dressed secretary welcomed the team.

“Good morning,” Lilith said. “I’m Lilith Sinclair. I’m here for a meeting.”

The secretary gave a small, polite smile. “Yes, Ms. Sinclair. You're right on time, we've been expecting you. Please head to the executive floor. Someone will guide you to the meeting.”

“Thank you.” Lilith nodded and turned, following the direction given.

She tried to stay focused. Overwhelmed by the sight of many organizations like hers, gathering to make proposals, she felt a wave of anxiety.

“ Hey!!. Are you good?” Her team reassured her, they too felt the overwhelming fear.

But as she walked down the hallway, something made her slow down.

A figure stood ahead. Tall, familiar figure watching..

Her steps faltered. “What is going on with me today?” “The same man from earlier.”

For a second, Lilith completely lost her composure. Her heart skipped, her thoughts scattered, and all she could do was stare.

“Who are you?” She whispered to herself.

Before she could look away, his eyes met hers again—sharp, unreadable, like he already knew exactly who she was.

Lilith quickly regained her composure, forcing herself to move, to act normal. But it was too late.

Something had already shifted.

And she could feel it.

Lilith walked into the conference room, her confidence radiating clearly, she started making marks already.

A few people were already seated, going through documents and quietly discussing.

At the front, the screen was already set, her team’s work projected clearly for everyone to see.

She took a breath, walked forward, and placed her file on the podium set.

“Good morning,” she said, her voice steady. “I’m Lilith Sinclair. I’ll be presenting on behalf of my organization.”

They nodded, giving her their attention.

Lilith began.

She spoke with confidence, moving through each point with ease. She explained the strategy, the benefits, the long-term value. Every word was clear and direct. Her points hit every one present.

“This partnership isn’t only about the profit,” she said, meeting their eyes. “It’s about growth. Stability. And choosing the right people to build with.”

The room was quiet. Listening.

She continued, stronger now.

“We’re not just offering a service—we’re offering consistency, results, and a team that understands exactly what you need.”

A few of them exchanged looks, clearly impressed with her pitch.

Lilith paused, letting her final point settle.

“So,working with us isn’t a risk. It’s a decision that makes sense.”

There was a brief silence.Then one of the men leaned back slightly. “That was… impressive.”

Lilith gave a small nod. “Thank you.”

“But,” he added, glancing at the others, “it’s not really our call to make.”

Lilith frowned slightly. “I’m sorry?”

“He’ll have to see this,” another person said.

Lilith became confused. “Who is he?”