Page 8 of Deception

Olive was working undercover as a documentary producer. The team behind her at Aegis had expertly put together some clips of other documentaries she’d supposedly produced in the past. One on conditions at an animal hospital. Another on the effects of processed foods on health.

It had been quite the feat to get it all done and to get fake reviews and interviews online. But Olive’s team was amazing, and her backstory looked both authentic and impressive.

“I’m thrilled y’all could come.” Rebecca practically glowed as she said the words with bright eyes and a big grin. “There’s nothing I love more than sharing my story so that maybe someone else can be inspired by the events that changed my life. I want them to know that even though bad things can happen to us, good can still shine through.”

Another great sound bite.

“That’s a great way to look at life when things like this happen.” Olive meant the words—she knew from experience. “Sometimes having a positive attitude can truly make such a difference when we face trying times.”

“You can say that again.” Rebecca’s smile stretched from ear to ear. “I’ve learned so much about myself, and I’ve become a better person because of everything that’s happened to me. People often ask me if I had this journey to do all over again if I’d change anything. The answer is no. Yes, it’s been a terribly difficult time. But I’ve grown so much and have become a better person through these trials.”

Olive swallowed hard and nodded. Rebecca was both charming and believable—much like Olive’s father had been.

If the woman truly was sick, then Olive could see why people wanted to support her.

But if she was lying . . . then she was preying on people’s kindness and goodwill. She was using emotional exploitation to benefit herself.

Olive had to find out if this woman really had cancer. If she didn’t, then she was scamming this community out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

And the only possible motivation this woman might have was greed.

Nothing made Olive angrier.

The waitress brought their food. Rebecca got a turkey sandwich, Olive some potato soup, and Nova a salad.

They’d talked as they’d eaten. A few times, Olive glanced around, halfway expecting to see someone she recognized from her stay here.

She saw no one familiar.

When Olive wrapped up her initial interview with Rebecca, she paused. She needed to sell her cover if she wanted to proceed with this investigation. This was the moment when push came to shove.

“I really feel like people can find inspiration with your story,” she started. “I’d love to move forward with this documentary if you’re on board.”

Rebecca paused a moment, and Olive wondered what she would say.

Time seemed to stand still.

If she said no, then investigating this case would be a lot more complicated.

Finally, a grin spread across Rebecca’s face. “I’m totally on board. I really feel like we’d be a great fit. We need to share the tough times in our lives so others will know they’re not alone in their struggles.”

Olive smiled, trying not to show her relief as she reached her hand out. “Then it’s a deal. A handshake will suffice until you sign the actual contract—which you should have received a few days ago.”

Rebecca took her hand and gave it a hearty shake. “I did. I already had my lawyer look it over, and I’ve decided to sign.”

“Wonderful.” Relief filled Olive.

Their first obstacle had officially been conquered.

“I really think this will be great.” Rebecca lowered her voice. “I mean, we’ll have to work around my treatment schedule. I’m assuming you knew that, right? Then again, assuming things can be dangerous . . .”

“Of course,” Olive told her. “That shouldn’t be a problem. What do you have coming up?”

“I have a few appointments, but I should be mostly clear for the next two weeks—unless something else pops up.” Rebecca touched her chest.

Olive could barely make out the outline of what appeared to be a medical port beneath her dress. Could Rebecca fake having a port?

Olive wasn’t sure. That was one of the many questions she needed to explore.

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