The Unwanted Twin and Her Alpha Protector

Chapter 9.2:Transaction

Riley POV

"A cage, or for better words, a trap of my own initiative. Bastard took the bait," I crowed triumphantly. "I've got you now," I hissed, fingers working quickly.

There was nothing more satisfying than taking down another hacker. It wasn't for the glory but so much the recognition. The determination to be the best.

"His own computer is riddled with viruses now. It's going to take him hours to fix them. In the meantime," I muttered, biting my lip, "the firewall is up and running. Heavily encrypted. New security measures for accessing the network and databases. An automatic detection if your system comes under attack again," I explained, slowly moving my hands away from the computer with a heavy sigh. "The moment anybody tries to breach, an alarm will go off and immediately notify you."

Looks of disbelief, followed by intense relief. The men all looked as though they were about to piss their pants. I yawned and put my arms above my head, stretching and getting all the kinks out.

"You're a lifesaver," Damien said, stunned. "It barely took you any time at all to fix everything."

"I'm not known as the Purple Rose on the dark web for nothing," I said with a roll of my eyes. "My reputation speaks for itself."

"I um, that is, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you," Damien blustered.

I waved a dismissive hand at him and then stood up."It's fine. Easy to be underestimated when you're still attending school. Anyways," I looked at the rest of them, smiling even as my body shivered from being soaking wet, "it was nice meeting you all."

Nods all around. Damien leads me back out to the corridor. "You should get out of those wet clothes. You're shivering," he said, concerned.

"I'll survive," I said abruptly.

I'd been through worse. A little cold never harmed anyone. Besides, it made me feel alive. Like I was really here and not just imagining things. A reminder that there was more out there than just pain and hurt.

"Very well," Damien sighed, running a hand distractedly through his hair. "Still, be careful," he advised gruffly.

I gave him a four-finger salute, and he chuckled, shaking his head.

I tapped on my phone. His dinged. He looked at me.

"Explicit instructions for how to access your network moving forward and suggested protocols. A private email address if you need to get a hold of me."

Thank f**k Audrey had shipped my laptop to me with overnight express and been clever enough to hide them amongst a bunch of books. Nobody even questioned it when they handed the package over, and now the computer was safely hidden beneath my bed. It was literally my lifeline.

"Thanks. My boss will appreciate all your hard work," he said with sincerity, "you should let me introduce you two. I'm sure that he would like to thank you in person."

"No, thank you. I don't need to take credit. I've included payment instructions," I added as he nodded, "and be warned, if payment isn't received in twenty-four hours, then your whole system will crash."

He looked offended.

"Nothing personal. I've had issues regarding payment in the past. This was my solution," I said grimly.

"Fair enough. Can't imagine anybody was stupid enough to try and pull one over you, though," he said with a frown.

I grinned. "Oh, trust me, they regretted it."

I turned around and made my way to the elevator.

"I have a car waiting outside for you. I can't in good conscience have you walk in that weather or have to pay for a ride. It's the least we can do," Damien said.

My first instinct is to refuse. I never accept perks like this. But my body is cold. Tired. My fingers hurt. I can feel the chill that refuses to leave me. This one time, I bent my own rules.

"Thank you."

I walk away, sensing his eyes on me. I walk through the foyer and see the same receptionist, only this time she gives me a disgruntled look. I almost laugh. I walk out the door, and my teeth begin to chatter again. The wind is brutal. I bite my lip and head for the limousine waiting patiently by the entrance.

"Ah, Purple Rose," the driver said, looking into the rearview mirror, "where can I take you?"

I lean against the seat, grateful for the warmth of the internal heating. I give him the location and then pause. "If you could just drop me off before the dirt road leading into the pack, I would be grateful."

"Damien Grimshaw was pretty specific about ensuring your safety. I'm happy to drop you off at your door."

"It's safer for both of us if you don't," I said firmly.

A look between us as I stare directly into his eyes. He hesitates and then slowly nods in agreement.

"Very well. I will do as you ask. Is there anything you require before we depart? Drink? Food?" he asked.

"No," I said wearily, "just take me home."

Home. What a laugh, but it's all I have for now. I felt my phone buzz and knew it was a notification advising me payment had been made and sent to my offshore private account that only I had access to.

"Thank you, Biotech."