Out of Reach | Mikhaiah

Chapter 34

Disclaimer: This is pure fiction. Any similarities to real people, places, or events are purely coincidental. Read, enjoy, and don't take it too seriously!

- ✦ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 ✦ -

Arisha's POV:

"Ari."

Gino's voice carried an unusual weight, making me glance up.

His eyes were sharp, studying me carefully. "What about your girlfriend?"

I frowned. "What about Mikhazra?"

He hesitated, then sighed. "Arisha... what if, in your pursuit of the truth, you uncover something you wish you never knew?"

A strange chill crawled down my spine.

I sat straighter. "What are you trying to say?"

"There are things better left undiscovered," he murmured. "Some truths come at a price. And once you know them, there's no going back."

He placed a brown envelope in front of me.

I hesitated. The weight of recent threats had already left me restless-this only worsened the feeling of unease.

Ever since that cryptic message, I had been spiraling. Why does the syndicate fear Mikhazra? What aren't they telling me?

But no. I trust Mikhazra more than anyone.

With a deep breath, I reached for the envelope. My fingers were steady, but my heart thundered.

The moment I opened it, my world tilted.

Photographs spilled onto my desk.

Men in black. Masked. Watching.

A pit formed in my stomach as I flipped through more documents. And then-

A man. Watching me.

At my concert.

A sharp breath left me as I clenched the papers.

"Arisha." Gino's voice was firm. "They've been watching you for a long time."

I swallowed hard. My entire life had been under a microscope, but this... this was different.

I gritted my teeth, gripping the edge of my desk.

"You need to be careful," Gino continued. "We can't trust anyone."

I forced myself to breathe before looking at him. "Gino."

He held my gaze.

"I already informed Akira. He's tracking the SUV Malisse saw."

"Thank you," I said, my voice devoid of emotion. But deep down, I was grateful.

Gino smirked slightly. "You don't need to thank me, babe. You're an Yñares. You're powerful enough to handle this."

Before I could respond, a knock interrupted us.

"Madam, Miss Kamizaki is here."

Shit.

I quickly shoved the documents into my drawer, locking them away.

"Let her in," I commanded, schooling my expression.

The door opened, and Mikhazra stepped inside.

Her gaze locked onto Gino instantly.

She didn't speak. Didn't move. Just... stared.

The air grew thick with tension.

Gino, ever the reckless one, cleared his throat and stood. "I'll be leaving now, babe. I have meetings to attend."