FORTY EIGHT

Massimo was about leaving the study, the ambulance of power and wealth surrounding him, his men were all set ready to attack Lucas' mansion.

Even though he knew it would be a delay mission, their main aim was to kidnap Olivia and if possible eliminate Lucas.

Suddenly his phone buzzed in his pocket, he brought out his phone, glanced at the screen and saw an unknown number, curiously he answered the call .

“Massimo,” a familiar voice cracked through the line. It was one of his informants. “Detective Harris has been taken by the authorities.”

Massimo's eyes narrowed, but he remained calm, “Interesting . I knew Lucas and that little journalist of his would be the reason for this. Keep me updated on any news.”

“One more thing,” the voice calm over the phone. “Despite being taken by the authorities, Harris had managed to send a message.”

Massimo's interest was piqued, “ Information? What could that be?” He asked with a raised brow, his hand pocketed in his pants.

The voice on the other end swallowed hard, before speaking, “Lucas and Olivia have left the country they’re on a vacation somewhere secluded.”

Massimo's eyes gleamed with interest taking a seat behind his desk, “Where?”

“Russia.” The voice replied, they’re on an island, if you we act quick, we can catch them off guard.”

“You’ve done well , very well. Keep me updated on any move.” Massimo said and ended the call.

Massimo leaned back in his chair, taking his fingers together thoughtfully. The fact that Harris has been taken by the authorities was a twist. This was the oportunity to take full advantage of, Lucas and Olivia were invulnerable, and he needed to make good use of this opportunity.

He picked up his phone,and dialed Marco's number, After a few ring Marco answered, “Massimo, what's going on?”

“Change of plan, I just got the information that, Lucas and Olivia are in Russia. This is the perfect time to strike.” Massimo said his voice filled with excitement.

There was a moment if silence as Marco processed the information, “I see, I'll make the necessary arrangements.”

Massimo cuts in sharply, “there's no need to waste time. I’ll rent a private jet, we leave as soon as possible.”

Marco didn't hesitate, “Understood, I'll gather the men.”

Hours later, Massimo, Marco and their men convened at a private airstrip . The sleek rented jet, stood ready on the tarmac , it's engines humming softly in the evening light.

Massimo, dressed in a dark, tailored leather jacket and black jeans, exuded authority and menace. Marco equally imposing in a fitted black turtleneck and dark slacks , matched his intensity.

As they boarded the jet, the tension was palpable. Massimo addressed his men, who were all similarly attired in dark , functional clothing, designed for blending into shadows and moving swiftly. “This is the chance, to catch Lucas off guard. Stay focused. No mistakes.”

Marco nodded in agreement, adding, “Remember Olivia is the key. We get her, and we control Lucas.”

The jet’s engine roared to life, and it began to taxi down the runway. As it took off, the cabin was filled with a sense of purpose and determination.

Massimo turned to Marco as they settled into their seats, “Lucas won't see this coming. By the time he realizes we’re there, it'll be too late.”

Marco smirked, we’ll hit them hard and fast, “No mercy.”

The flight to Russia was filled with hushed conversations and strategic planning. Massimo and Marco went over their plan meticulously ensuring every detail was covered.

As the jet sliced through the clouds, the men prepared mentally and physically for the task ahead. Massimo looked out the window, the distant light of cities below reminding him of the empire he aimed to topple. “This is it,” he muttered to himself, “Lucas’s reign ends here.”

Marco, seeing Massimo's resolve , leaned back and closed his eyes, visualizing the steps they would take, “we’re ready,” he said quietly, Lucas won't know what hit him.

ON THE ISLAND

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Lucas and Olivia sat by a bonfire on the beach, the flames casting a warm glow over their faces. Lucas looked down on Olivia , a soft smile playing on his lips. “This is perfect,” he said, “Just you and me, away from everything.”

Olivia nodded, snuggling closer, “It is . But we can't stay here forever , Lucas. We have to face our problems eventually.”

Lucas sighed, his fingers tracing patterns on her arm, “I know, but for now,let's just pretend that everything is perfect.”

Lucas then gently fed Olivia a strawberry , “You deserve to be treated like a princess,” Lucas murmured , his voice filled with affection.

Olivia blushed, leaning closer to kiss him softly, “You always make me feel special.”

Lucas continued tracing his hands on her arm, then his hands got to her neck, he kept tracing his hands around her neck.

He noticed she still had the chipped necklace he had given her, the first time he took her out on a date.

Olivia lay back on Lucas's chest , they were wrapped in each other's arms. The sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop as they talked and laughed.

“I could stay here, forever,” Olivia sighed, her head resting on Lucas’ chest.

Lucas stroked her hair gently, “We can stay as long as you want. No one can reach us, here, it's just you and me.”

Their peaceful moment was interrupted by the soft chime of Lucas's phone . He glanced at the screen and saw it's a call from an unknown number. He hesitated but Olivia noticed.

“Go ahead, answer it,” Olivia said, her tone still gentle but with a hint of curiosity.

Lucas kissed her forehead, “I’ll be right back, pretty doll, just a quick doll.”

He stood up, reluctantly letting go Olivia's hand , and stepped a few places away, to answer the call. Olivia watched him, her heart filled with warmth and contentment.

The call took longer than expected and Lucas's expression grew serious as he spoke in hushed tones. When he finally ended the call and turned back , he found the daybed empty.

“Olivia?” Lucas called, scanning the beach. There was no response.

His heart pounded as he looked around, the serene setting suddenly feeling ominous, “Olivia!!” ,he shouted, his voice e echoing across the deserted beach.

Panic set in, as Lucas realizes she was no where to be seen.