Chapter 1186

Rhett said with a touch of frost, “Makiko, we ought to respect each other, don't you think?"

Makiko's grip tightened on the steering wheel, her face set in stone, though her words were silky smooth. “Mr. Zhao, you're absolutely right. We're not in an employer-employee situation. I totally get it."

Rhett went on, "Since you get it, you should also know that working together means being upfront and honest."

Makiko took a deep breath. No one had ever dared to boss her around like this before. Rhett sure had some nerve!

Rhett continued, "Makiko, you do realize Oliver and Mr. Cole are uncle and nephew, right? You're not plotting against me, are you?"

"Absolutely not. You know how things stand with the Baldwin family. If Wilder doesn't make his mark, he's got no place there. We brought you in to help Wilder secure his spot. Trust me, we won't drag you into Baldwin family business."

Rhett let out a sigh of relief. As long as he wasn't up against Oliver, everything was negotiable. If it came to that, he'd be gone in a flash.

Makiko hung up and tossed her phone aside like it was cursed, threatening to bring bad luck. She drove with a fury, zigzagging for two hours before reaching her destination. After stashing the car, she walked another half hour to finally arrive.

Password entered, iris scanned—a dual authentication system let her in. Inside were several rooms, and Makiko pushed open one of the doors.

As it swung open, the person inside turned to face her. Strikingly handsome, tall and lean, with eyes that pierced right through you, he instantly reminded her of Oliver.

This was Dominic, the long-missing enigma.

Makiko sat down, her eyes scanning Dominic not as a person but as if she were appraising merchandise.

"Not bad, not bad at all," she complimented.

Dominic stayed silent, his eyes icy.

The walls around them were covered with info on Oliver-from photos to text, and even his recent activities. Everything about Oliver, from his fashion to his walk, right down to his eating habits, was plastered on the walls.

Since being rescued, Dominic had been holed up in this room, perfecting his impersonation of Oliver.

Makiko stood up and paced along the wall, finally stopping in front of Dominic. "How's it coming along?"

Dominic answered, “I've gone through everything. I'm in the imitation phase.” "Great, but you need to speed up; we're kicking this off sooner than planned."

Dominic nodded.

Makiko reached out, her fingers tracing Dominic's smooth facial features. He wanted to pull away but stayed put allowing her fingers to linger. -

"Dominic, pick up the pace. Don't mess up my plans, got it?"

Dominic lowered his gaze, his eyes meeting Makiko's for a brief, tense moment.

Then, Dominic shoved her hand away. "Please, have some respect.” He walked out abruptly.

Makiko watched him retreat, laughing out loud. "You think I'd even bother with you?" she scoffed.

Her eyes drifted to a photo on the wall. In it, Oliver looked severe, his narrow eyes gleaming with the cold intensity of someone used to being in charge. Makiko's gaze heated upð, á mischievous smile playing on her lips.