The Unexpected Beginning
As Light and Elly climbed out of the limousine and stared at the luxe but ominous building in front of them, a place that was going to be their lives for the next few years to come, both probably had the same thought spinning through their minds. “How did we even get here?”
A week ago, neither of them could have predicted the sharp turn of events that pretty much brought them to the doors of one of the most high-value secret societies in the world. But eight hours ago, the two of them were in a limousine, with Aiden nonetheless and being driven off to a secret location.
A flight in a private jet and another limo ride later, the two were in front of their new home - The Golden Circle.
Walking up the stairs, Aiden stopped and turned towards them, “Ladies, here are the keys to your houses. Get comfortable. I’ll be back in three days and come back and explain.” With that, he got back into the car and James drove off.
Eight hours ago
It was just another day, another routine coffee stop for Light at her favourite cafe in town. The cold brew was her newest habit before her work day began. And as she headed into the cafe, she felt a cold stare from a stranger at a distance. She did not want to make her discovery obvious, yet in the reflection of the cafe door… her eyes widened, her heart began to pound. It was Danny, the expensive “operator” Gregory always counted on to bring his missing girls back home. A cold chill ran up Light’s spine; she pretended not to see him. The next few minutes were swift. She saw Danny stand, her hand trembling, she felt her heart pound so loud that all she could think of at that moment was to run. And run she did, crashing right into Aiden’s chest who was barely three strides away from her. Her shock doubled, she looked up at his face.
Aiden: “Light!”
Light: “Get me out of here. NOW.”
No questions were asked. Aiden grabbed her arm and pulled her into the black limousine with him. “Step on it, James. First Estelle and then straight to the airport,” Aiden’s voice was cold, firm. James was a man of few words. He nodded and just sped off.
Light: Estelle? Wait, Aiden, what's going on?
Aiden: I should be asking you, Light, why are you running?
Light: I…
For a moment Light felt the daunting pressure of baring her soul to Aiden. The sound of the limo’s engine seemed so loud at that moment. She could feel his eyes on her, expectant.
Light: Do you mind if I call Elly quickly please? I promise I will explain.
Aiden nodded patiently. Light, still a little shaken up, quickly dialled Elly.
Elly: Light! Where have you been? I have been trying to see you before I leave for my flight!
Light: I know, I know, I’m so sorry the move has been so slow. But listen, Elly, I think Gregor has found me. And I need to get out of town. But can I quickly come and pick up some of my stuff from your place?
Elly: Wait, where are you now??
Light: I’m on my way!
Elly: Light, wait, I have a flight to catch. Just waiting for my ride!
Light: We’re really close! I won’t be long.
Moments later, the limo pulled up in front of Elly’s house. She’d been waiting with her bags. And as the door to the car swung open, Elly froze.
Elly: Wait. Wait. Aiden? You’re the recruiter?? What’s Light… what is going on!
Light: Wait Aiden?! You’re the recruiter?
Aiden: James, please get Estelle’s bags. Estelle please get in, things seem to have become more urgent. I will explain.
Light: Wait, Elly where exactly are you going with Aiden?!?
Elly: It seems we all have a little bit of explaining to do?
The limo rolled out of the quiet neighbourhood, speeding towards the airport. Aiden’s sigh is what broke the puzzled silence between them. Slowly, and in detail, he explained how he came to be part of one of the most secret societies on the planet. And how he chose to be the one to handpick girls from different parts of the world to be part of this inner circle. Highly skilled performers who knew how to feed fantasies and bring illusions to life. And how each of these women would have to commit five years to the Circle in exchange of their personal goals being fulfilled. Every detail that Aiden shared stumped the girls. What astounded them the most was when he said that they too were handpicked by him to spearhead the new movement at this establishment.
Eight hours later
Aiden: I had hoped to formally sit with you last for your invitation, but seeing as you appear to be on the run, perhaps starting a new journey with your best friend seemed more appropriate. I do have a few more ladies to pick up but as soon as I return perhaps the three of us can discuss it over dinner. In the meantime I have arranged for your things to be moved to these two addresses on the Estate. Please make yourself at home and I will meet you both for dinner later?
Light and Elly took the key cards from Aiden, still sceptical of their new beginning. In some ways more questions than answers seemed to echo in their minds. With one outfit change, a flight and a limo ride to The Golden circle, the three arrived finally. The estate was breathtaking; well hidden in a vast scenic surrounding, so far away from the big city. Light looked up beholding the building. Gold accents to every detail spoke richly of the establishment they encountered.
Aiden: “Let me quickly take you in for a quick tour then I have a flight to catch.”
After taking the ladies through the club, Aiden kissed Light's cheek with an apologetic smile. “You’ll be safe here I promise.” He disappeared into the limo again, leaving Light with a strange suspicion that he already knew what she was running from.
