Chapter 48

James took a deep breath before disclosing the truth. "I realised Noemi is seeing someone else, sir. She is now in a relationship with Jacob."

Mr. Gareth's eyes narrowed as he processed the information. "Jacob, you say?" He tried to play innocent. "Are you suggesting my son, Jacob?"

However, he knew James too well to get facts and do his work diligently but still wondered why, and what caused his previous failure.

James's voice had a hint of bitterness. "Yes sir, I have learned that Jacob is in love with my Noemi, and it infuriates me. And I want to destroy their relationship so I can have Noemi to myself."

Mr. Gareth's expression remained numb, though, within himself, he was happy that he had found who would stop at nothing to bring Noemi and Jacob apart.

"James, are you willing to go to great lengths to achieve your goal?"

James nodded, his determination intact. "I am prepared to do whatever it takes, sir. I want Noemi back, and that's why I have come to you. There's news I've got to share with you."

"Go on James." Mr. Lionel Gareth adjusted his sit and for the first time, he said James since the discussion began.

"Thank you, sir. First I knew you were aware of this and you hired a close friend, Nathan to bring them apart but he failed." He continued. "Your son and Noemi are still planning to proceed with the wedding."

As James unveiled his plan to Mr. Gareth, he leaned forward, his fingers steepled, and his eyes glittering with curiosity.

The revelation that Jacob still intends to marry Noemi took him by surprise, and James's proposal offered a tantalising opportunity.

"James," Mr. Lionel Gareth said, "You are telling me that Jacob, my own son, is marrying Noemi? After I made it clear to him that I would disown him and not give my blessings if he does." Mr. Gareth said, fuming.

James shook his head and seized the opportunity to further his menacing agenda.

"Yes, Sir. It is an ideal situation for us. I know I can not work with you in the same capacity as before, but I can certainly help you in this matter." he stopped to see the reaction on Mr. Gareth's face.

James continued, "I can use my knowledge of Jacob and Noemi to create a believable scenario that would damage Jacob's reputation and eventually drive them apart."

"Go on, James. Tell me how you plan to achieve this." Mr. Gareth's gaze bore into James.

James outlined his detailed scheme.

"I will maintain a low profile, to ensure that Jacob does not see me as a threat. Then, I will continue to study his movements and routines, just as I have been doing. But instead of just observing, I will work out evidence that suggests he's been unfaithful on the night of his bachelor's eve."

"And how do you plan to do that?" Mr. Lionel Gareth's eyes glow with anticipation.

James leaned in, his voice became low and conspiratorial. "This is what I intend to do." He continued.

"I will hire a woman to approach Jacob and seduce him on that particular night, providing photographic evidence that can be leaked to Noemi. It will appear real, like an act of cheating. Noemi will be hurt and betrayed, and she will be compelled to reconsider her relationship with Jacob."

Instantly, Mr. Lionel Gareth's smile was cold and calculating. "And in the process, my son's reputation will be tainted, and Noemi will be vulnerable and emotionally troubled. It is a plan with potential, James."

James nodded. "Yes sir, I will make sure that the evidence is convincing and that it can't be traced back to either of us. And I will do everything possible to make this look like a genuine betrayal."

Mr. Gareth leaned back in his chair, his mind filled with possibilities.

"Very well then, James. I will allow you to proceed with your plan, but remember, it needs to be flawless. We can't afford any mistakes. If we succeed, not only will Noemi become yours again, but we will also achieve the intended result with Jacob." he said.

James stood up to take his leave. "Noted sir."

As if he could read minds, Mr. Lionel Gareth stopped him and said. "You will surely need financial support to make this work out excellently. I have decided to assist with that."

"Oh that's so generous of you, thank you Mr. Gareth." James beamed.

After another minute, James left Mr. Gareth's office, feeling the weight of his devious plan bearing down on him.

He was now entangled in a web of deceit that threatened to consume him.

* * *

Back in the parking lot, Jacob finally looked more closely at the car that had pulled in earlier. To his surprise, he recognized it as James' car, though the tinted windows obscured the driver's identity.

He couldn't help but wonder why James had come to the company to see his father. It was certainly his father who James had come to see.

As he scanned the scene below, he saw James exit the car and head towards the building. Jacob was torn between confronting him and staying on the call with Noemi.

Noemi, who was concerned by Jacob's silence, asked gently. "Jacob, are you sure everything is okay over there?"

Jacob paused for a moment before responding, "Yes, love, everything is fine. I just have to deal with something real quick. I will call you back in a bit, alright?"

"Okay, Jacob. Please take care, and don't hesitate to call if you need anything." Noemi instructed, her voice tinged with concern.

"I will, Noemi. I love you," Jacob said, as the words filled with warmth and affection.

"I love you too," Noemi replied, her voice conveying her full love and support.

With a heavy heart, Jacob ended the call, with the knowledge to confront James. The situation had taken an unexpected turn, and he could not ignore it any longer.

Jacob had seen James enter the building, and a sense of urgency propelled him to take action.

The secrets surrounding James and his connection to his father were about to be revealed, and Jacob was determined to get to the bottom of it.