The Whispers of Deceit

Prologue

Hidden and peeping from behind a tree, the inconspicuous man observed the Polish immigrant wipe away his tears. The never-ending wait was annoying the assassin known in the market as Jude.

He thought, “Why is my Boss not signalling? I hope he sticks to the plan. He’s known to be a stickler for perfection, but can be fickle-minded as well.”

Contemplating further, Jude muttered, “Don’t change the plan, old man. I have bills to pay.” Jude chuckled at the stupidity of his joke, as he had enough to last a lifetime. The assassin retraced the day when the business tycoon approached him. His first reaction was a concoction of surprise and dismay as the person in question was well-known across the U.K. for his ever-expanding business empire. The businessman was regularly featured in the media for his acquisitions and growing clout. As the wait continued, the Silent Killer (a name given to him by other competitors in his field) replayed the scene in his mind.

Unable to resist, Jude had enquired, “Why him? I remember him, from my orphanage days. The love that he had showered upon us-I had never witnessed as a child. Although I know that the sole reason for which businessmen contribute towards the lesser sections of the society is for media coverage and P.R.”

Ignoring the plea, the contractor looked at the former and quietly said, “Jude, I’ll give you a blank cheque. You can take what you want. But the work must be done. After this assignment, you can retire and live a quiet life, relieving yourself of your sins.”

Caught in an unknown throe of emotions, he wondered, “What becomes of people that one wants to get the other killed?”

Breaking from his dream, Jude quickly glanced at the contractor and target. Both were having a heated argument. Looking at them, Jude remembered his internal conflict before agreeing to the contract. On one side, his conscience pricked him (a one-off), while on the other, the offer was too good to refuse.

And now, standing amongst the trees, awaiting the signal, Jude once again had the same feeling arise from the pit of his stomach. For the first time in his impeccable career as a sniper, his heart and mind were at war with each other.

“l will surely lose my millions if I backtrack. Boss won’t like it. And who knows in a fit of rage, what he will do with me. I’m kind of stuck in the situation. I’m sorry Sir.”

The assassin was aware of his field’s protocols and rules of conduct, as he was a thorough professional. Thus, steeling himself by shaking the bout of consciousness, Jude tried to concentrate on the job at hand and mumbled, irritated, “When will the conversation end?”

The seasoned killer knew his job too well and waited patiently for the indication.

The man knew that the aftershocks of this high-profile assassination would be splashed across every paper, tabloid, and social media, creating an unimaginable hysteria amongst people across the U.K. It would be a national sensation and news that would lead to discussions, gossip, and a spurt of stories emerging from all corners of the country.

But for Jude, none of this mattered. The shenanigans were for the attention seekers. As far as he was concerned, his work would finish, a man would be dead, and his Boss would have achieved his goal.

Jude could swiftly feel ‘something’ change. It seemed to him that nature had sensed what was about to happen and was holding its breath. The coolness of the trees also altered, and Jude found himself perspiring. “Am I nervous? Am I doing the right thing? I have seen and heard about this man. No, I should forgo the money and spare this man’s life.” His sixth sense alerted him to run away as far as his legs could carry his weight.

But, alas! It was a bit too late. At that moment, he saw his employer’s hands clasping. Rooted to the ground, Jude knew the last door had closed.

Inhaling deeply, he said a quick prayer like he always did. Instantly, he felt his old professionalism rising its head. Jude recalled the famous lines by a British poet, “Patience is a virtue,” and he counted himself as ‘virtuous’ indeed.

Calmly and steadily, he aimed and fired. Waiting just for a nanosecond to ensure he’d hit the bulls-eye, Jude casually left his hideout. He walked away whistling the tune of “The Godfather” but with trembling hands.

Chapter 1

After a week of never-before-seen, incessant rainfall, the sky finally seemed ablaze with the sun’s radiance. It appeared as though the ball of fire felt relieved to get an opportunity to showcase its full grandeur after being hidden for the longest time in the last decade. The blue heavens and clouds were spick and span after returning all the dust and pollution with a vengeance back to the earth.

For every resident of London, UK, such beautiful weather was a blessing. And you must count your blessings while they last. And the Londoners wanted to make the most of the opportunity. As a result, parks, streets, and playgrounds were abuzz with people of all age groups. Even those with pets were walking around, giving the canines and felines an equal chance to enjoy such a bright, sunny day.

Hyde Park, located in the heart of London, is one of the eight Royal Parks, spread over 350 acres of land. Created strictly as a hunting ground for the Royal Family, the Park opened for the general public in 1637. In its current capacity, Hyde Park houses the Diana (Princess of Wales)-Memorial Fountain area, Kensington Gardens, and many more. The beautiful Serpentine River, built in 1730 by Queen Caroline, wife of George II, spanning over 11.34 hectares of land, flowed graciously amidst the unending greenery. The artificial river body attracts swimmers, walkers, and those who wish to savor the moment.

People visiting Hyde Park roamed around the different sections. Hence, one could never call the Park noisy. But if a walker casually strolled near the Serpentine River, one could hear the shrill squeals of delight from those diving into the lake. On the contrary, if you passed or stood next to a crowd, various news regarding politics and entertainment would fill you more than the daily newspaper. And, to a passerby, it may sound like a couple of indistinct overlapping radio channels.

The visitors could also hear the distant whirring of machines at a construction site. For those who lived around the area, tolerating the noise was a regular affair as the development of a fifteen-story office building was taking place for the last eight months. But this did not deter the occupants of the Park.

Hyde Park was well-maintained and clean. A few areas did surprise the day-trippers, as there were a litter of posters from a rally that had concluded a day before the heavy rains. The water had caused the paper and lamination to wilt. But with cleaners hovering around, the general public was confident that Hyde Park would be its unsullied and spotless self in no time.

And as the day went on, it was evident that the Londoners were out to have a good time and enjoy the sun.

Sitting on a bench, Oliver Fletcher stared at the youngsters appreciating a carefree afternoon. His mind wandered back to his happy-go-lucky days when life was simple and easy.

He also remembered the stories about his forefathers. They had been prominent rank holders of the British East India Company. Although proud of his lineage, Fletcher often felt remorse for the inhuman behavior the Company meted out to innocent civilians.

Oliver Fletcher gazed at the Diana Memorial Fountain. And remembered meeting with the late Princess as he marvelled at the 545-piece Cornish granite structure. “What a wonderful human being. This structure and its flowing water perfectly depict her open-mindedness. If only…” rued the business magnate. Sighing deeply, he whispered and completed the sentence, “If only she could live longer and be Queen! But alas, some things are not meant to be.’’

As the synchronized rhythm of the fountain soothed his nerves, Oliver Fletcher returned in time and recalled his first day at work. As a nervous man, he followed his father to understand the organization’s functioning. But as time passed, the nervousness gave way to a steely determination. Oliver’s tactfulness helped him gain a lead over his competitors and expand the business outside the United Kingdom to Germany, France, Poland, and many more European countries.

A sudden splash of water jolted him from his reverie. And the big man stared around, startled, and the reality crashed upon him. He couldn’t decipher the reasons for the scam that had rocked the foundation of the more than half-a-century-old real estate business he had inherited from his father at age twenty.

He experienced an urge to scream, mixed with agitation and an inherent wish to seek revenge. Unable to take it anymore, he started pacing briskly along the length of the Memorial.

Chapter 2

Tall, well-built, but slightly stooped due to a recent spine surgery, Oliver Fletcher had a rather imposing personality. Despite his grey and white streaks and being closer to sixty years of age, Fletcher still had a boyish charm with his styled, handle-bar moustache and a closet filled with casuals and formals that spoke of his love for fashion and class. Those who knew him well were versed in his passion for Omega and Rolex watches.

His friends would often tease him as the brand ambassador of these brands. Collecting their limited editions was one of the many fetishes of Oliver Fletcher. But his attires and watches were not the only reason for his popularity. Oliver Fletcher was the center of attention at every party due to the never-ending stock of wisecracks.

But, that day at Hyde Park, the tycoon was worried and stressed. His reputation was at an all-time low. A recent occurrence had robbed him of his peace and happiness.

As his patience waned, Fletcher felt anger burst through him. Once again dipping into the pool of memories, Oliver recalled that fateful meeting with a short and stout Pole and had told his then-secretary, “What a strange-looking fellow!”

Tired of walking around, the old man sat with a disgruntled expression and spoke to himself, “I remember the baritone, laced with accented English. I don’t know what he said, but he did convince me to give him the contract. It’s because of me that he’s in this position. But has he forgotten it all? Why did he sabotage my reputation? Why did he do so? My years of work to maintain father’s name is at stake.”

Continuing with the tirade of thoughts, “Why hasn’t he come yet? I’m sure you’re deliberately delaying. As you very well know I detest waiting. But you can take as much time as you want. Because, this time I won’t leave without answers. You will have to come and explain yourself.”

As the wait continued, so did the relentless effort to control his thoughts. As they continued bombarding him, “You will pay for your misdeeds. I won’t let you off the hook, Aleksy Nowak.”

Although his past experiences with the Pole indicated that the latter is adept at twisting and manipulating facts, Oliver Fletcher knew that meeting with his former best friend was imperative.

Chapter 3

Aleksy Nowak was buoyant when he sat in his shining, black Limousine. The request from Oliver Fletcher was something he desired. ‘’At last, the day has arrived…” It seemed to Nowak that his prophecy had come true.

Aleksy Nowak, was of Polish origin. Nowak, Born in a cold Scandinavian country, was blessed with typical Polish features. He had a pointed nose, fair skin, and light-colored eyes. The only exception to his otherwise perfect look was that Aleksy was surprisingly short. He was 5 feet 7 inches, shorter than most men in Poland, where the average height was about four inches more. However, he never let this aspect bother him. Nowak was focused on his mission and had worked hard all his life to achieve it. And now, at the ‘young age’ of fifty -five, the Pole had a business that spread from the U.K. to parts of the European Union. A fete that only a few immigrants had achieved in a conservative country like the United Kingdom.

As the businessman rode to his destination, he returned to those days when he would walk to reach his university. His quest for a degree had made him study hard and do odd jobs to fund his college fees. Coming from a middle-class Polish family, his father didn’t leave a stone unturned to help his pragmatic son.

Turning into Bond Street, the real estate business owner gazed at the shops that were unaffordable at one point. Aleksy gradually traversed back in time when travelling from Poland to the United Kingdom was a rather complex and expensive affair. But due to sheer grit and determination, the twenty-five-year-old man had managed to cross over.

A few years younger than Oliver, Aleksy had a receding hairline and snow-white moustache. And a third of the construction sights belong to him or his subsidiaries.

As his Limo careened through the busy street of London, Aleksy half-smiled at his reflection in the mirror. The slightly wilted skin and gold-rimmed glasses were proof of the years gone by.

It was June of 1970, and upon arriving in the capital of the UK, Nowak again found himself doing odd jobs before serendipity changed his life forever. With mixed feelings, the business tycoon remembered the auction, where he met the dynamic heir of Fletcher and Sons. The aura and opulence surrounding the young scion had immensely impacted the simple and humble Polish boy.

As the car slightly swerved due to a crazy cyclist, Nowak jolted back into reality only to slip further into his Pandora’s box. He remembered trying his best to catch Oliver Fletcher’s eye. And as luck would have it, this simple, commonly dressed Pole caught the latter’s attention.

Chapter 4

“A man of such a high stature. He has the suaveness that attracted people like a squadron of fireflies.” Aleksy thought.

Going deeper into the days gone by, Nowak remembered the quiet confidence and aristocracy surrounding Oliver Fletcher. And then smiled at his erstwhile thought process, “What will I tell him? He’s born with a silver spoon, while I am the son of a clerk. Looking at me and associating himself with me are two very different things. I feel like a misfit amongst this elitist crowd.”

But much to his surprise, another well-dressed gentleman had approached him. He said Fletcher Junior had requested his presence in the Maple Room Lounge. Aleksy’s excitement knew no bounds as his wish came true, but a sudden wave of nervousness gave way to cold feet.

But at the end of the auction, with Fletcher and Sons bagging the deal, the same gentleman escorted the ‘misfit’ to meet Oliver.

The present-day millionaire recalled the warm and welcoming smile of Fletcher, one of the several qualities of the latter that filled Aleksy Nowak with an emptiness from within. As he knew that he could never match up.

‘’Sir, your destination has arrived.”, spoke the chauffeur. Sighing, Aleksy looked at the gigantic Hyde Park gate. He would finally meet his erstwhile mentor, guide, and the man who had been kind enough to bring him under his wings, especially when Nowak desperately needed funds and a job.

But, once again, a sense of jitteriness filled the Polish man at this juncture. Aleksy Nowak felt his heart contract at the memory of that fateful day when Oliver discovered his unscrupulous activities. He had betrayed the latter’s trust by trying to procure deals from Fletcher’s clients. The Polish man, to date, couldn’t remove the image of a stunned Oliver, who had overheard his entire conversation on the extension.

Aleksy suddenly felt weary as he went through the showdown when Oliver barged into his room and said, “I showered you with love, affection, and most importantly, my friendship. I treated you like a brother and presented you with opportunities that many take years to get. And what did you do? Betray me!’’

Aleksy still felt remorse and wished he had not committed such a blasphemous act, mainly because, for Polish folks’ friendship is forever as it’s considered one of the purest forms of relationships.

Steeling himself, the business tycoon stepped down and stood staring at the beautiful gates of the Royal Park. This time, it was not the status of Oliver Fletcher but the feeling of meeting his old friend under such hostile conditions that prevented him from walking through the gates.

Taking a deep breath, Aleksy Nowak mustered up the courage to meet his best friend-turned-foe. As he entered the historic gates of the Park, a wave of nostalgia hit him, as it was the same place where Fletcher had severed ties with him.

But knowing there was no way out, Aleksy Nowak strode towards the Diana Memorial Fountain to meet Oliver Fletcher.

Chapter 5

While the Brit waited for Aleksy, his mind went back to the days when both the young lads had a strong bond forming between them. An involuntary smile played on the former’s lips when he recalled they had decided to undertake an expedition to Glen Etive, Glen Coe. “Oh, what lovely days. The climb was simply stunning, past the barren mountains and waterfalls. The trek made us feel like we were walking into the clouds. Such a stunning view of the sunset. We had even toasted our friendship and partnership. Sitting with Aleksy taking in the beauty of nature. It was truly amazing.” He could almost feel the presence of his friend as he replayed the chit-chats from yonder years.

Surprisingly, Fletcher laughed as he remembered their conversation, “Tell me, Aleksy, are you sure this mountain is not an active volcano? The U.K. has several extinct ones, but we might be in for a surprise. What if it bursts and hurtles us down?” And then the aged tycoon chortled once again when the image of his friend came into his mind, “ Oliver, Glen Etive was a super volcano. We are standing on its remnants. Nothing is going to happen. Let’s enjoy the moment! And before you start another of these maddening conversations, I say we start trekking down as soon as the first ray of light hits us.”

As Fletcher deep-dived into the days gone by, his eyes suddenly saw the silhouette before him. He didn’t need the person to come closer. Oliver Fletcher would recognize him with his eyes closed. Fletcher gazed intently and felt anger rising as the man’s shadow walking from afar gradually covered the distance.

As Fletcher saw his Polish rival, the aristocratic businessman was transfixed. As he saw the aging man walking towards him, Oliver noticed that, like the first time, Aleksy was nervous. A condescending smile curled up on seeing Nowak’s discomfort, “Serves you right, traitor. You’ve not changed. Your greed and dishonesty are at their peak!”

But as Aleksy’s silhouette became more apparent, the darkened skin under the eyes and the strained look shocked Fletcher. In an instant, he felt his anger melt and his old feeling of friendship resurface.

But not the one to redo his mistakes, the scion of Fletcher and Sons reiterated the past occurrences in his mind as he continued to think, “Well, well-he finally showed up. I thought he wouldn’t. But I just want to unearth, what intent forces him to sabotage and ruin my Company. After all, for all these years we had an unsaid truce between us. And in this very place I had forbade him from crossing over to my territory!”

Both rivals gazed at each other with mixed feelings -sometimes anger, hatred, love, but mostly sadness. A strange silence and hollowness filled the two experienced people in business, who were aware of the cardinal truth of life- One couldn’t retrieve lost time. And some actions can’t be retraced and undone.

“Hello Oliver, you’ve aged like fine wine.”, said Aleksy with a nervous smile, breaking the ice, as he approached the bench where his erstwhile employer was waiting for him. Smiling ever so slightly, Oliver said, “But what has happened to you? Paying for your follies? The darkened and pock-marked skin is quite contrary to what I remember of you!”. Ignoring the barb and retracing his facial expression to a severe look, Aleksy understood that this was not precisely a reconciliation meeting. Sitting next to Fletcher, he said, “Why have you called me here? To once again point out what happened a decade ago?”

“You know, Nowak, when I met you first at that auction, I realized that you will go a long way. You had the spark and mark of a leader in you. And, I always believed a person is considered powerful, if they can help uplift others.” sighed Fletcher.

Aleksy felt his guilt rise once again and maintained silence. Taking a cue, the other continued, “All the time we spent together was one of the best years of my life. Perhaps you never noticed, although I had several people hovering around me, I was always alone. I had thought…”. Oliver held back his following words as he didn’t want his emotions to overshadow his agenda.

But as one says, those who know you the best understand your silence better than anyone else. Aleksy didn’t need Oliver to complete the unfinished sentence because he knew the beautiful rapport with Fletcher was priceless. But before Aleksy could respond, a sudden uproar near the Serpentine River startled the two gentlemen.

Chapter 6

A sudden chaos and confusion around the water body halted the conversation. Oliver and Aleksy noticed a group of young men diving into the lake. Nowak motioned one of his bodyguards, Alec, to gather information regarding the situation. The latter returned quickly and informed his Boss that a couple of children had accidentally fallen into the Serpentine. And would have drowned if the other divers hadn’t acted instantly.

“Good Lord! Are the children doing well? Aleksy, can we send Alec over to assist? If they need doctors, he can do the needful “, said a worried Fletcher. Nowak nodded and ordered the guard to provide all sorts of assistance to the kids and their families.

After releasing Alec, Aleksy found himself staring at the smooth-flowing water of the fountain. The Polish man regretted the years lost in self-inflicted hatred, as once again, in a matter of minutes, Fletcher had demonstrated that he was a true gentleman.

But refraining from apologizing, he spoke in a small voice said, “Look Oliver, I did what I had to do. I had no choice. It’s true you provided me the required succour, but to reach this stage something extra was required. And I’m an opportunist.”

Oliver looked at his Polish counterpart with disgust. And quivering with anger, he exploded, “An opportunist? No! An opportunist doesn’t betray. Had you left me and joined a company for better prospects, I would have had respect for you. But, you’re a man with no conscience. You’re devoid of remorse. You scoundrel! Reaching the heights of success and deception can’t be interrelated. You are and will always be the biggest regret of my life. And just when I thought that I finally have someone I can trust. To think that I wanted you to acquire a position in my Board. But I thank my lucky stars. You revealed your true identity. “

For a casual onlooker, the sight was of grownup gentlemen enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. But little would they know that a silent battle was ensuing amongst them.

His eyes wide open at the newfound information, Aleksy felt himself slip a bit more into the whirlpool of shame. But once again, his ego and pride acted as crutches to prevent him from drowning.

Some time passed before either spoke.

One was seething with the idea of revenge, while the other was with his internal conflict.

“Honestly, Fletcher, although your righteous ideas are great to stoke a kids’ fancy, you’re not all that good. Although you treated me well, you never hesitated in relegating me a to a lower position. My suggestions were always overlooked. And now you say you wanted me to become one of the Directors?”

Chapter 7

Aghast at this fallacy, Fletcher remarked, “I wish I could share the minutes of the Board Meeting we held. Prior to discovering your scam and true colors. Good God! You really doubted my intentions and festered wrong notions about me. And that’s why you betrayed me? It’s a pity Aleksy. What we could have achieved together.”

Suddenly tired, Oliver Fletcher exclaimed, “Why didn’t you discuss your future plans or confront me? You would have known that I had envisioned you as an equal shareholder and partner in Fletcher and Sons. I was planning to pass a resolution and surprise you.”

Aleksy crumbled internally. He couldn’t believe his ears. His heart thumping was so loud that he felt Oliver Fletcher could hear his conscience ‘stab’ him. Silenced momentarily, Aleksy mentally exclaimed, “Oh God, what have I done! And after so many years, once again I have sabotaged this man. He’s suffering due to me. How should I stop the wheels that I’ve set in motion? But then the information I received six months ago. Was that true? “

Unable to prevent the firmness in his tone, Aleksy questioned, “You can’t guilt trip me Fletcher. And especially after the information I received, regarding your unscrupulous activities to tarnish my reputation in the market. Had I not foiled those plans, I would be a finished man.” Hearing this, Oliver looked at his companion quizzically. “Oh, don’t’ look so bewildered and unaware. You have been spreading wrong information about my Company. All the false rumours have affected my share prices. And now you look at me as though I’m speaking an unknown language! “

“What are you talking about?” Laughing at this question from Fletcher, Aleksy said, “You surely are a good actor, my friend. Your team of trolls have been targeting me for over a month. On Twitter, LinkedIn and other platforms, morphed images of me being involved in illegal arms dealings. And if that is not enough you are alleging my Company, Nowak Enterprises of defaulting taxes. How dare you do that?”

Gradually slipping into his skin of being a skilled orator, Aleksy continued, “Who gave you this information? Do you suffer from a dual personality disorder, speaking of righteousness and being almost satanic at the same time?”

Not getting a response, Aleksy continued ranting, “Although I broke your trust a decade ago, you are now taking revenge. You’re speaking maliciously about me. Isn’t this the truth?”

Oliver Fletcher felt vexation fill him, and it seemed someone had pulled a rug from below his feet. He trembled as he saw a devilish smile on Aleksy Novak’s face. The short man from Poland whispered, “Have you ever wondered why all your sanctions for government projects have been stalled and your company account seized? My dearest friend, I have submitted a document to the government along with evidence that the construction of your projects is on illegal land. Plus, you have been providing jobs to illegal immigrants. You see, I have developed some connections of my own. So, it was not too much of an effort.”

Shocked at this outburst and confession, Oliver spoke softly. Still, in a quivering voice, “Aleksy, we’re not and will never be friends again, as you need to learn what this word means.”

Although relieved and unburdened at confessing to his doings, Aleksy felt his heart crumble. For he knew that Oliver Fletcher loved and hated with the same intensity. This feeling lasted for only a few seconds.

In a split second, Aleksy’s face brightened up as he knew that the damage inflicted was irreversible. Fletcher and Sons would have to shut operations soon, and with looming losses, Oliver would be under pressure to sell the firm. Aleksy started dreaming of sitting on the CEO’s chair.

Chapter 8

“I had called you with the sole intention of knowing the reason. But I guess, you saved me the trouble of questioning you. You’ve always been a gutsy fellow right from start. But now I realize my folly in trusting a man from a background like yours. My instincts had warned me, but I didn’t pay any heed. And now, I’m paying the price. Well done! Aleksy, you’ve come a long way! But I’m not like you and can never be.”

Pausing for a second and looking straight at the downcast eyes of Aleksy Nowak, Oliver said, “I didn’t send those photographs to the press. I hired a couple of people to unearth the truth. It was the work of Rick Johnson, the new entrant who desires to close our businesses. He first attempted to strike a partnership with me to bring you down. And when I denied it, he resorted to these techniques. I don’t know how he created this situation, but it seems like he has succeeded in bringing one of us down. Hasn’t he?”

Fletcher continued contemptuously, “But Aleksy, you will pay dearly for your misdeeds. And soon you will find that out!”

“You’re as cunning as a fox! I can’t believe hearsay. And Rick and I are about to sign a contract. You’re trying to get even, Fletcher. I won’t let that happen.”, an agitated Nowak hollered.

Laughing rather painfully, Fletcher took out his iPhone and played a video of Rick’s discussions with Nowak. And whispered to the Pole, “This evidence is your ticket to jail. I will ensure that you’re behind bars forever.” As Aleksy saw the video, his face lost all its color.

Unable to bear the weight of the reality, Aleksy broke down. Oliver sat there quietly. A sense of peace was engulfing him. And just like a predator giving a sense of warmth to its prey, Oliver Fletcher put a comforting arm around the shorter man, squeezed his shoulders, and said, “I can save you if you admit to making a mistake. A public apology and transferring your business will be enough. Otherwise, you’ll go to jail for misrepresenting facts and figures. And if you do not agree, I also have a Plan B.”

Realizing that he had been cornered and defeated, Aleksy mustered up the courage to look straight at Fletcher and instantly understood that the latter was in no mood to mitigate. Nowak realized that he was indeed paying for his lack of judgment. And resigned to the fact that his survival was more crucial than winning over Fletcher in the present situation. Hence, to save himself for a later battle, Nowak immediately telephoned his lawyer to prepare the papers for a power transfer.

With a steely glint in his eyes, Fletcher said, “Leave Britain and never set foot again. Remember, this evidence will be made public if you make one wrong move. Go back to where you came from. I never want to set eyes on a treacherous soul like you. And if you do, I promise it’ll be your last.”

Aleksy Nowak looked dejected and stood up to leave Hyde Park and his erstwhile mentor and friend. But before he went, he looked at Fletcher again and spoke firmly, “I don’t think you can forgive me ever. But let me tell you one more secret before I leave. I think you will thank me for that.”

“I don’t wish to hear your lies, Nowak. Aren’t you done? Have you ever thought what we could have done had together?” said Oliver with an unmistakable pain.

Chapter 9

Not answering the question immediately, Aleksy looked around and spoke conspiringly, “Since this is the last time I will get to talk to you, let me confess to something. You needed to be wary of someone who was your confidante. He’s the most dangerous one.

“And why should I trust you? You might be trying to trick my mind!” said Fletcher. Aleksy’s demeanor changed suddenly.

Laughing in his trademark style, Aleksy said, “At my behest some of the Members of your Board, are working tooth and nail to oust you. Be careful. And if I were you, I’d leave this premise immediately.”

Hearing this revelation, Oliver Fletcher felt a chill run down his spine.

Continuing with his confession, “There are plans to put you in a spot where your return is impossible. In one of the discussions, we also contemplated your assassination.”

“Are you trying to scare me?” Said Oliver in his attempt to look brave.

Suddenly, Fletcher’s sixth sense alerted him. And without answering his enemy, his eyes darted around, looking for a safe spot. He felt as though someone was watching them.

Oliver quickly signalled his guards to get closer for cover. And he started walking.

But Oliver Fletcher felt something pierce through him before the guards could reach him. Suddenly, the pristine white shirt changed color as he fell to the ground. To his utter dismay, Aleksy turned around and smiled. Rushing towards the dying man, he whispered, “You see, Oliver, the one who knows you the best is the most dangerous. You shouldn’t have trusted me then, and you shouldn’t have trusted me now. I orchestrated the evidence that you showed me.”

Tears running down his cheeks and an excruciating pain ripping through him, Oliver Fletcher’s eyes opened wide. But smiling softly, Aleksy continued, “How else do you think my dream to become the most powerful real estate businessman would have come true? I had to eliminate you to reach the top spot. I had to throw this bait at you to catch you off guard.”

Conscious of the crowding that had started, he quickly looked at his enemy and menacingly said, “I’m sorry, Oliver. But I had no option. You were correct about the arms deal. I’m going to earn millions of pounds. Why did you pry into an area that’s not your jurisdiction? Can’t you let people live? I knew the moment you would receive the video you would use this information to corner me. Sorry, my dearest friend! “

As Oliver Fletcher was slipping into oblivion, he knew this ultimate betrayal was something he had not expected from Aleksy Nowak. As he felt his vision blurring, Oliver heard his nemesis utter urgently, “Fletcher, Oliver! Oh god, what happened! Someone, please call the ambulance!”

As a group of worried onlookers crowded around him and someone called the emergency, Aleksy Nowak waved a quick bye to a bleeding Oliver Fletcher and slipped away.

As people and his security guards surrounded him, a dying Oliver Fletcher could see the retreating figure of someone he had called his brother.