In the morning, Shantel was already in Marvin’s office. Marvin called me to come to his office that Shantel was there. We gathered in Marvin's office, it was like Marvin’s office become the center of our operations. The air was thick with tension as we discussed the events of the previous night and the steps we needed to take to protect ourselves from further danger. Marvin and Shantel sat across from each other, their expressions a blend of determination and anxiety.

Shantel was not sure of our next move, she wanted us to stay quiet until everything dies down. She was still shaken by yesterday’s event.

“I have not had the opportunity to say thank you, thank you and I owe you my life,” Shantel said.

My presence in the room was a testament to the unity of our cause—to uncover the truth and shield Marvin from the unseen threats that loomed. It was a complex game of deception we were playing, but we had little choice but to engage in it to safeguard our future.

“Have you told Ken about last night? I asked.

“Yeah, what I told the police was what I told him, haven’t you heard from him, Marvin?” Shantel asked curiously.

Marvin leaned forward, his voice measured as he addressed Shantel. "You need to leave town, Shantel. It's clear that whoever orchestrated the ambush is not willing to stop until they've achieved their goal."

Shantel nodded, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and resolve. "I agree, Marvin. But I need to come up with a convincing story to tell Ken. He can't suspect anything is amiss."

I couldn't help but interject, offering my insights to aid in the deception. "Shantel, when you speak to Ken, emphasize that your relationship with Marvin is over, that you've realized it was a mistake. Make it sound as though you're committed to moving on with your life." I said.

"I can do that,” Shantel said as shel took a deep breath, her gaze shifting between Marvin and me. “But what about the police? They'll undoubtedly have more questions."

Marvin spoke, his voice steady as he outlined our plan. "Cass will guide you on what to say to the police. We need to ensure that our stories align and that we don't arouse any further suspicion."

I nodded in agreement, taking on the role of strategist in our elaborate ruse. "Shantel, when you speak to the police, focus on your interactions with your relationship with Marvin, and emphasize your desire to sever ties with him. We need to create a convincing narrative."

As we continued to hash out the details of our plan, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the situation pressing down on us. The web of deception we had woven was intricate, and the consequences of any misstep were dire.

As Shantel stood up to leave, Officer Page walked in. “Ah, the trio I love to see. Good morning folks,” the officer said smiling as if he caught us stealing something.

“Good morning officer, How can I help you?” Marvin asked.

“Shantel what are you doing here, you should be resting after yesterday’s incident?” the officer asked Shantel.

“She came to see me officer…” Marvin had not finished his speech when the Officer interrupted him.

“... you know Mr. Marvin the world does not revolve around you, Ms. Shantel can speak for herself,” The officer said.

We all turned to the Shantel at the same time as if we were expecting her to say something that would get us into trouble.

Officer Page, yes I can speak for myself, Marvin was shot and I came to see how he was doing, does that satisfy your thirsts sir?” Shantel said as she waved Marvin goodbye I nodded her head towards me.

“Why do I get the feeling that something is wrong and you guys are hiding something?” the officer asked as he took a seat from the corner of the office and sat down.

“Officer Page please you can take your hunch somewhere else I have work to do,” Marvin replied.

“So you why are you here? Officer Page asked me.

“I work here, what do you think?” I replied.

“Marvin when I get you, your money will not be able to save you,” Officer Page said.

Ken came into the office to see th officer leaving, he turned and looked at the officer then turned to me, “What have you done this time around?” He asked.

I ignored him and went to sit down opposite Marvin.

Marvin knew that he had to take drastic measures to protect himself and the woman he loved. It was a tense morning at the office as Marvin asked me to stay while he discussed with Ken to address the issue head-on.

"Ken," Marvin began, his voice firm, "I can't ignore the events of the past few days. The attack on me was orchestrated, and I can't help but wonder about who was involved. I am not saying it’s you but I need to be careful," Marvin said.

Ken's face contorted with indignation. "Marvin, I had nothing to do with anything. You're accusing me without evidence." Ken said.

Marvin leaned forward, his eyes locked onto Ken's. "Until we figure out who's behind this, I can't take any chances. I'm restricting your access to my office and my affairs. I can't allow anyone for now too close to me until I am certain who wants me dead,” Marvin said.

Ken's anger simmered, but he knew that Marvin's actions were a necessary precaution. "Fine, do what you must, but I hope you find the real culprit soon." Ken said.

“Shantel has left me, she wants a secured life and I cannot guarantee that for now, so she left.” Marvin said.

“I am so sorry she left but it is obvious that she left because of Cass, here, rather than anything else. Cass is not allowing you to see through anyone Marvin, she is bad news, please let her go,” Ken said despite I was present in Marvin’s office.

“Cass has nothing to do with this. Why are you obsessed with her?” Marvin asked.

“Don’t worry I will get you someone better and very ready to marry”. Ken said apologising to Marvin.