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On their way back, Numbu noticed that Jun was quiet and lost in thoughts. He had to admit that Aleksander was even more dashing and charismatic than what the reports stated about him. Surely he made a strong impression. He felt a bit guilty. It wasn't easy for a man like him to implicate an innocent girl in such a dangerous yet emotional mission. If he were to have any other option, he wouldn't had considered the present situation. No, he didn't have any other choice and he just couldn't trust anyone else. "What do you think of Mr. Estak, Jun?" She startled at the question interrupting her thoughts, and finally faced Numbu. "I will meet him tomorrow." "I see." It wasn't a surprise, he expected that. "In that case, tonight I will prepare the microchip for him." "What will happen if he discover that the information I'm providing is false?" She could fathom clearly the risk involved. "I wouldn't had sent you for the mission if I don't trust to have full control of the present situation. We're talking about a particular device that needs a special code in order to be opened and download, you will be the only one who knows it. Once Aleksander or any of his subordinates try to install it in his or any computer, the system will show a partial view of a false profile I myself created. It will need your expertise to handle it and all you need to do is to convince him that no one but you can do it. It's imperative to get access to his data as well as his and his company files." "Let's assume I'm in his computer, how do I get access to his personal files?" "In fact, you don't need to do anything, the microchip will do it for you. You see, when it's plugged, automatically will send any information the computer has stored in matter of minutes. A tiny light will indicate you so. By the time he or anyone else realize, it will be too late as we will have access to any information stored there and with luck, that will be all we need to prove this man's implication with Galactor." "I understand." Jun let go a deep sigh. "I'm sorry if this cause you any distress, but you're the only one who can accomplish this. That's the reason you're in a solo mission." Tilting her head, she asked the obvious. "Why the rest of the team are not working with us?" "Simply, it would attract so much attention. Besides, Ken and Joe are presently busy in another mission. You see, that man we just met is not only charisma and smiles but a ruthless CEO of the most profitable business company in the market. His wealth I can assure you, it wasn't obtain by being charming. Also, we need to find out how much is his involvement with Galactor once and for all, exposing him to the world and at the same time, stopping him at all cost." Jun nodded. It was clear that now all depended on her. ----------

The following day the Central Plaza was full of people. Office workers were going and coming as it was lunch break. For her part, Jun was standing next to the fountain distracted by her own thoughts. Dressed elegantly with a skirt red suit, her hands grabbed tightly her purse. When the clock was still marking midday, a black limousine turned the avenue and stopped right in front of her. A muscular big size man wearing dark suit and sunglasses, beckoned her. Taking a deep breath, she walked toward the car and bordered it. After clearing various security check points, Jun finally reached a penthouse of a imposing building in the city centre that clearly were the headquarters. The lift doors opened and soon she was welcome by Aleksander himself. "Welcome, my dear Jane." He kissed her on the cheek. "I've been waiting for you. Please, follow me to my office." His assistant was there, but silently, he just followed. Walking at his side, June tried not to wonder around too much. It was difficult not to admire the place: everything was luxurious and refined. He had everything around him tastefully decorated and obviously, aesthetic. His private office was even better in comparison with the rest, but Jun didn't have time to admire the place. It was imperative to get the information as soon as possible and to get out of there. However, after dismissing his man with a nod and at the moment he closed the door, Alex embraced her from behind. "This time no one will interrupt us." He seductively whispered near her ear, making her shiver. Aleksander began to place his lips against her soft skin and Jun felt like if his neck was on fire. Her natural reaction was tipping her head aside and that itself told Alex that both were enjoying the intimate contact, so he continued. Gulping while shutting her eyes, Jun knew that she needed to be focused. But it was easier to say than do. His touch was somehow controlling her body reactions at will and there was nothing she could do. There was something about this man that truly took her right to the edge of reason. Why was this happening? Attraction, maybe? A phone rang and suddenly the intimacy between them was gone. He let go of her and sighing deeply, went to his desk to answer the call. "What?" His voice clearly stated that he didn't like to be interrupted. And while he nodded and listened to the person at the other side of the line on what seemed to be important, Jun then had the chance to gather herself and concentrate again in her mission. Nonchalant, she discreetly looked at her surroundings to try to get a clue how to find the truth about the charismatic man in front. She needed to know where his true allegiances were. Suddenly, her gaze landed in a photograph. Adjusting her glasses while admiring it, she noticed something peculiar... it was another woman. She was tall, slender and blonde. June then remembered that Alex fancied that type of girls. Something inside her trembled for some reason and she didn't like the feeling. "Sorry to keep you waiting. It seems that some 'imbeciles' we're not doing their job and needed some reminders. Where were we?" Before he had the chance to continue his advances, Jun quickly opened her handbag and showed him a small case. "I believe we were talking about this." He smiled broadly and extended his hand to take it, but she pulled it out of reach right away. "I believe we need to discuss certain details before I hand you this." Not only his eyes went open wide, but his smile too. "I knew you were special." And opening a drawer, he placed an envelope in front of her. "Trust me, this is a lot more than you could ever get for that." His deep blue eyes were raging like a storm. "I'm yet to see that." She smiled flirtatiously. And while she was looking at its contain and counted the money, Aleksander studied her gestures. Something about this girl was very alluring. In the past he had met many beauties, even some more elegant and sophisticated than her, but Jane was different. More than ever, he decided then and there that she would be his. "We have a deal." And extending her hand after opening the case, the microchip was over her palm for him to grab. But before handing it over, she inquired, "Tell me, why someone in your position is so interested in Gatchaman's true identity? It has nothing to do with business, unless..." He chuckled. "Besides being gorgeous, looks like you have brains." Amused, he reclined on his chair. "Let's say that someone very important and close to me, is curious to know about that little secret." "Curios, why?" Without a word, he took her hand and grabbed the precious item. In no time it was inserted into his personal computer. Jun observed the device emitting a tiny light. Like Nambu mentioned to her before, it was working. After few clicks, Aleksander reach what it seemed to be a halt and with a frown, asked Jun. "What is this?" He turned his laptop to her. Smiling, she pressed some keys and voila!, a file was opened. "This is what you wanted, no?" Flabbergasted, Alex read eagerly the contain. Yes! It was precisely what he was looking for. A file with personal information, dates, names and even some addresses were there. A broad smile adorned his face. "I've been waiting for this moment for so long-- now, it's time to..." But for some reason, he realised Jun was there and stopped himself. "Time to what?" She asked but he only showed a ominous gaze that lasted for a brief moment. Then he was all smiles. But before he could continue checking the information, the screen went blank and the system requested for a password. "What's this?" Jun stood up and leaning next to him, began to type the decoding password. "This means you can't get what you want unless I said so..." She raised her eyebrow in triumph. Reacting aggressively, Aleksander grabbed her by the wrist. "I don't like when people try to play games with me." His eyes were then menacing. Jun smiled. "This is not a game. Like you, I could be very serious when dealing with business. Give me a couple of days and I assure, I can decipher the code. Obviously Nambu doesn't trust anyone, not even me." With a cocky smile, he backed up and looked at her closely. "I want you." Upon hearing this, she immediately stopped and stared at him in disbelieve. He chuckled guessing what was in her mind. "I want you-- to work with me." Jun typed faster and soon she straightened her shoulders and backed up a little. "Perhaps I should remind you that I'm not looking for a job, but a buyer." She adjusted the glasses trying to regain control as she was overwhelm by his advances. "How much would it take to convince you? Give me not only this file but also your loyalty." He pointed to the screen. "Name your price." At this point he was enjoying what he considered a business challenge and showed it with a grin. Looking at the situation, Jun knew she had finally an upper hand. "I deal with information. So, I'm looking for the perfect chance to do so. You know, being Numbu's assistant has its perks. Normally, I have access to many valuable information that not everyone within the organisation can get hold of. I could sell all that but I need the right buyer... maybe some acquaintance of yours in the upcoming Charity event? A Galactor's agent, perchance?" "Why makes you think I have connections with them?" His eyes were then like sharp knives, yet he clearly was enjoying the challenge. "Simple, there are few rumours about you. You see, looking around I got to know from Nambu's files that they suspect of you and they have traced back your involvement to that criminal organisation, through the philanthropic organisation in charge of the annual ball next Saturday. I want to know who's behind the flow of cash in the most grandiose single event of the year and I would like to be his acquaintance. As you may guess, I would be more than happy to offer my services and of course, it all will come at a very high price." He didn't respond, his eyes were simply squinting at her. He didn't deny or confirm her suspicions. Instead, he rubbed pensively his chin, like if he was deliberating. At this point, she couldn't help but feel nervous again. Jun was taking a huge risk and so much was at stake, but she needed to prove Aleksander links to the enemy if they wanted to stop his plans to interfere with the Mantle Proyect. "Fine." He stood up and suddenly, he yanked her arm while she stared at him with curiosity, then he added, "but with one condition: you will no longer work for Nambu, but me." His eyes gleamed with desire. "You will give me your loyalty... and you." She gasped in surprise and her heart started racing. Both of them gazed at each other, one questioning while the other commanding. There was something on those eyes- alluring, arrogant yet inviting. Jun was definitely taken by them. "And your first job will be to get this file as soon as possible." His other hand pointed at the screen, "and then, show me your value. I tell you what, if you give me what I want I shall oblige to your request. Find an excuse to convince Nambu and come with me as my partner to the ball, over there you will meet the person behind everything-- if you insist in that idea of yours, Miss Greedy." Jun simple nodded looking back at the microchip, by this time its tiny light was already off. It seemed that everything went well. "I will have it ready by the night of the event and don't worry for Nambu, I will take care of that." She promptly released herself from his grasp and removing the microchip, she place it safely in her purse. "You better do it, I won't tolerate any failure." He reminded her and Jun nodded, reassuring him. And that's how everything was set in motion. ----------

The same day, Jun returned to Nambu's office but unfortunately all the information gathered by the microchip showed files filled with past and future plans and projects from a minor company-- mostly valueless. Aleksander proved to be too smart, not even his own computer stored valuable information. Sighing, Numbu lifted his gaze form the screen, looking at her. "I'm sorry but you're now required to attend the ball as he expressed. Don't worry, from my side I will make a public announcement saying that I need to be out of town for personal matters and that you will represent me. Just remember that once there, it's imperative for you to try to discover the true identity of whoever is his main contact within Galactor." After her encounter with him, Jun was hoping all his involvement with Aleksander was done. She was wrong. Now, she really had to convince him to introduce her to his Galactor contact. That information seemed to be very elusive. She worried that the more time she were to spend with him, the more she would feel spellbound by Alex. A couple of days later a package arrived to Nambu's office. It was address to certain Miss June and when the recipient opened it, she gasped in awe. "This is gorgeous!" Jun exclaimed while admiring the fabric. It was a sapphire blue Victorian dress, embroidered with pearls and fine lace. "Remember that you will be Mr. Estak companion for the night. You must look your best and clearly, he wants to make sure of it." Nambu commented showing certain concern. "I'm worried, I don't deny that. He's way too smart to be fooled and if at any given moment he suspects of me, we will miss the opportunity to get the identity of Galactor's agent." Placing his hand over her shoulder, Numbu reassured her. "Remember, you have my full and complete trust. Please, don't forget that you won't be alone, some of our agents will be there to protect you at all times. So, you just need to get ready and do your best." She looked at him knowing that by then everything, including her and the other agents working in the case depended on to be convincing. It was clear more than ever, she needed to trust in herself. ----------

The flashes were overwhelming every time the numerous paparazzis try to take a shot. In order to get the best photos for magazines and newspapers, none of them missed the chance to snap their cámaras at the arriving guests. One by one, the rich and famous were arriving in limousines and posh vehicles only then, to parade over the red carpet. Never before, so many celebrities gather together. That was the very reason this ball was considered the event of the year. Throughout the evening, the glamorous mansion on top of the hill welcomed its distinguished guests. But when a dashing Aleksander Estak arrived and made his grand entrance to the place accompanied by stylish young blonde, there wasn't a soul who couldn't resist staring at them with admiration. For a couple of seconds after descending from the limousine, Jun fidgeted nervously with all the attention. Their presence were undoubtedly making all the heads turn. Contrary to what she expected at first, somehow she caught Aleksander's fancy. Clearly he was absolutely charmed by her and it was no wonder as she truly look ravishing-- her beautiful gown was adorned with fancy jewellery that Numbu managed to borrow from the most famous jeweller in town. Besides that, a glamorous hairdo and a stylish Venetian mask, complemented by the perfect make up, gave her a grandiose finish. It looked like Nambu didn't leave anything to chance. Luckily, all his effort paid off-- Aleksander was dazzled with Jun and from the moment he picked her up, he proudly walked at her side with her hand placed around his arm. Strangely, both of them complemented each other and by the murmurs surrounding them, soon they were coined as the perfect couple. Not long after their arrival, an announcement was made and Aleksander walked to the podium. He was about to give a speech to welcome the guests and thank them for their presence. Soon after, some other members of the committee, joined him. While clapping along the others, Jun couldn't resist the impulse to admire him. Alex was the epitome of impeccable and elegant personality. She couldn't deny that the man with the dazzling personality, was also a very ruthless man--- yet, as a woman she was indeed attracted by his manners and looks. At one point during the speech, Aleksander laid his eyes on Jun and both were staring at each other. Her smile told him that she was totally charmed under his spell. At the thought, he smiled and winked at her. However, while Aleksander was still on the podium, a masked man approached Jun and when everyone was distracted watching a short video, without a word, the stranger took her by the hand and forcefully guided her to an empty balcony. Initially, she resisted but when the man showed a gun, she could not longer refuse. "What do you think you're doing, mister?" She yanked her hand free. He smiled. "It seems all this glamour haven't changed you a bit." He pointed to the dress and jewellery. Hold on, she could recognised that voice. "Joe?" He laughed and in a swift motion, removed the Venetian Half Face mask he was wearing. "What are you doing here? Nambu said you were in a mission." She asked. "I am in a mission and my target is here." He replied while she looked confused. "Is Aleksander Estak?" "No. It's the Galactor main agent and..." At that moment, they were interrupted by cheers and sounding applauses. Both of them stepped back into the hall and to her surprise, Jun soon found out who was then the center of attention: the same same tall blonde woman she saw in Aleksander's office, no doubt about it. Even from far, she could recognised her even with that dainty Renaissance costume and mask. "It seems my pray has arrived." Joe whispered. "Who is she?" "All we know is that she's the second in command after Katse. A very dangerous and ruthless woman. We've been working for months, trying to discover her true identity, but it seems that even within Galactor, it's a top secret. Many of our agents have tried to gather that information, and all of them simply disappeared. That's why Ken and I were assigned to this mission." Joe then gave her a look of scorn and disgust. He truly hated Galactor. Jun couldn't believe it. All this time, she thought Aleksander's contact was a man and to her surprise, it turned out to be a woman-- and not just any woman. For what Joe mention, she hold a high post within Galactor ranks. No wonder she was imposing and with a distinguish air. Being tall helped her to exuding authority and her manners also told her that she needed to tread very warily around her. Immediately, her thoughts went to Alex. What was their relation? Perhaps it was an intimate one as he had her photo in his private office. Thinking about it made her feel uneasy and a strange feeling settled in her stomach. Especially the moment she spotted Aleksander's personal assistant walking next to that woman. Regardless of her feelings, she had a mission to accomplish and placing a mask on her face, she walked away from Joe. Following the tradition, the tall blonde still wearing her mask, began her speech with her long list of achievements and accomplishments that her Foundation had attained throughout the year. Upon finishing, she officially let the ball commence. Completely astonished, Joe witnessed how Jun approached the woman after she descended the podium and wearing his mask, got closer cautiously. Joe remained not far from the two blondes Jun came up to the woman when she descended from the podium and with a curtsy, she introduced herself. "Good evening, my name is June Joyce and I'm here as Mr. Estak's companion for the night." Both of them glared at each other. Finally the tall woman, spoke. "I see. So, you're Alex new interest." She looked at her up and down like trying to figure out what Alex had seen interesting on the girl. "Then I believe he has spoke about me. Did he mention that I would like to be your acquaintance?" Jun went head-on with her plan. "Maybe. Would you like to join me for a drink?" And without saying anything else, she passed by her side and walked directly near the bar. Over there, a waiter offered her a cocktail from his tray and taking two, she called Jun to join her. Both were enjoying their drinks in silence and moments later, when the tall blonde dismissed Aleksander's assistant, discreetly asked Jun. "Did you manage to decode the file?" "Yes, it's here with me." "Then, give it to me." Her voice was cold and commanding. Jun didn't fret to her surprise. "It comes with a price." The woman just looked in silence and impassively at her. "Now I know what's unique about you. It seems that Alex didn't exaggerate." She then drank her cocktail in a sip and beckoning Alexander's assistant, she guided both to a private room. It was the library. Promptly, the man brought a suitcase and took a small computer from its compartment. "Show me you're worthy of what you're asking for." Her voice denoted mistrust. Right away, Jun inserted the chip and made her magic. A file was opened and it showed what it seemed to be classified information. Totally astonished for what was in front of her, the blonde removed her mask and smiled satisfied. "Finally!" The two women faced each other and Jun then noticed. 'Wait a minute... those eyes-- Aleksander's eyes!' Those were the words echoing in her mind. But before she could mention anything and without saying a word, the blonde took the device with the chip and staring at Jun scornfully asked her to remain there and left the room hurriedly. Immediately, Jun tried to followed her but the man stopped her by shaking his head 'no' and soon after, also left the room closing the door behind him. Alone, she just stared at the door and sighed, knowing that something was wrong... really wrong.

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Wow! I wonder what the prompt was that inspired this excellent story!

I wish it was mine!

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I had to look up the prompts I'd submitted to be sure. But -- THIS ISN'T MINE! I really enjoyed it, though.