[Coded Ledger] Confront Kane

“And what about this?” she asked, sliding a copy of the coded ledger across the table. “We recovered this from Romero after his recent... detention. He had been meeting with an American, and was transporting large quantities of something through Montesoro. I assume you’re familiar with it.”

Isabella was bluffing, hoping that the man before her would not realize she did not really know who - or even what- was involved.

For the first time, his expression shifted slightly—a flicker of amusement, almost approval. “Ah, yes. The ‘goods.’” He tapped a finger on the edge of the table. “In that case, let me throw in a sweetener, just between the two of us. Allow me to continue my operations—no questions asked—and I’ll ensure you receive the same payments Romero was getting. Maybe even more.”

Her blood ran cold, but she kept her face impassive. “And if I refuse?”

His smile returned, sharper this time. “You won’t. Because you’re smart enough to know when to pick a fight... and when to make a friend.”

The unspoken threat hung heavy between them. Isabella felt it like a tangible ****, pressing down on her, threatening to suffocate her.

"I will have to consider your proposal thoroughly. You understand, of course," she said, keeping her tone neutral.

She stood, signaling an end to their meeting. Kane rose as well, and for a moment, they were inches apart, a silent battle of wills raging in the silence.

“Thank you for your time, Madame President,” he said, nodding slightly before turning to leave. "And if you come to a decision, you can reach me through the embassy. I'm a busy man, and is seldom in town. You understand, of course."

As the doors closed behind him, Isabella exhaled, a tremor of anger—and something more, something she couldn’t, wouldn’t, put a name to—running through her.