The Understated billionaire: The Ex-son-in-law's rise

Chapter two

The high level conference room was dimly lit, its light shifting to the holographic projection spun above the conference table.

The president as well as few senior officials sat around the large sized table, backs straight, expression solemn as their eyes wandered the projection displayed. 

Every movement, every breath in the room could be heard as everyone's face weighed concentration.

Lucas Oliver entered the room and the atmosphere changed. They were all waiting for him. Everyone including the president stood up releasing thunderous claps into the air. His prison attire didn't stop them from showing how grateful and fulfilled they were. 

The president took him by hand and led him to the centre of the room.

"Lucas Oliver, a man of honour" Mr President patted his back lightly.

Lucas remained calm, poised, and didn't fidget. His aura filled the room .

"Distinguished officials, today we gather to celebrate a remarkable achievement, a testament to leadership, dedication, an unwavering support and commitment to the nation" The president picked up an black box from the table. "I present the highest our military can bestow: The tank of a five-star-general. Mr Lucas, your selfless service, strategic intelligence has been recognised. As you receive it we recognise your tireless efforts to the nation" Mr president pinned the insignia on Lucas's chest and took a step back before saluting him.

Everyone in the room followed the President in saluting him.

"Congratulations Lucas" everyone echoed applauding his efforts.

"Thank you Mr. President " Lucas shook hands with the President.

Lucas was glad he could finally retire with honour, it was a great achievement for him. He waited for this year and it happened sooner than expected.

"Mhmm" The President cleared his throat trying to get everyone's attention. "I'd like to have a private conversation with Lucas" He dismissed all officials in the hall.

Behind the shut door, The President slid a thin black file across the table towards Lucas. Lucas picked it up, it had no label, no marks, no hint, he was clueless.

"This mission..." The President's voice lowered "is the reason you were imprisoned " 

"I'm supposed to be clear of all missions and retired" his brows furrowed as he picked the folder.

"This will be your last. You are our greatest asset, the only person fit for this job" He dipped his hands in his pocket. "The file remains closed, no one else must know. No one must suspect " 

"I'll need more than a file to accomplish the mission " Lucas requested.

"To ensure the mission's success, you've been granted the highest level of clearance. The nation is at your disposal, unrestricted freedom. Act as you seem fit" 

A common man would have shown hesitation or asked questions but Lucas was not a common man. He simply placed a hand on the file acknowledging both burden and command.

"I know you have it together. Good luck " Mr. President released a breath, one of relief as he walked out of the hall.

Luck was for men who doubted themselves. Lucas didn't.

***

Lucas stepped out of the building, no longer in an orange jumpsuit. He took in the sight of the outside world he hadn’t seen in what felt like forever. The gentle breeze against his skin, the sun’s benevolent kisses. He was so indulged in the moment, he didn’t notice the woman running towards him, not until she had her arms wrapped around him in an affectionate embrace.

“You’re doing alright,” she breathed, her hands clawing onto his neck.

“Get off him!” a guard yelled as two of them rushed up to pry the lady away from Lucas.

He raised a hand to stop them, then stared down at the woman holding onto him. His head suddenly felt heavy, maybe from the sight of the sun after months of being confided away from it. Gentle yet firm, he placed a hand on the lady’s shoulder and pulled her slowly.

“You look familiar,” Lucas said, studying her face.

“I heard about your divorce,” she announced.

There was ‌still silence, the wind carrying her words and plunging a knife deep into Lucas’ heart. His divorce with Bella was final, and there was nothing he could do about it anymore.

But his brows furrowed. “How do you know about that?”

“I’m a very resourceful lady,” she responded, offering him a hand. “Camila,” she smiled. “Camila Adams.”

Lucas was hesitant, but accepted her handshake. She had this gleam in her eyes as she stood with him, like she’d been waiting her whole life for this moment. It made Lucas sick. He scoffed as it reminded him of when he’d newly gotten married to Bella. She had that same look of love and excitement each day he came home, but it was all a ruse.

“I’ve heard about the Adams family,” Lucas said, tight lip.

“Then you must know we’re very rewarding,” she responded.

She leaned forward, getting too close and forcing Lucas to take a step back.

“I didn’t know you were getting released today,” she continued. “But when the guards told me, I knew I had to be here to say hello.”

“Well, thank you for the kind gesture, Miss Adams. But I’m afraid I need to go now.”

Camila tilted her head, then laughed softly. “You’re going out to dinner with me.” Her voice shifted ever so gently, but Lucas could sense the power in it.

That playful look on her face had temporarily been whisked away by a sudden darkness, but she was quick to put back a smile on her face.

“I was hoping I could treat you to your very first meal outside of your prison. To celebrate your release.” Camila continued, taking his hands in hers. “You possibly can’t say no,” she continued, persistent as ever.

“Is there an option where I say no and you stop pestering me about it?” Lucas asked.

She smiled. “There isn’t.”

Lucas thought over her offer shortly. He wandered if this was fate, or the file already pulling the strings on his next mission?

He exhaled slowly, rubbing the back of the head. “Fine then. Lead the way.”