Louisa felt a pang of guilt as she gathered the courage to confront Nikki. "I betrayed my friend by doing that, and I was hoping you'd keep your word, but..."
Nikki cut her off abruptly, seizing her by the collar with a fierce grip. "Stop talking nonsense, Louisa," she snapped, her voice dripping with malice. "I'm Nikki Mallory, and I could have my brother fire you in an instant. Consider yourself lucky that I'm only cutting off some of the money I promised you. I don't care what you do, just do as I say. Understood?"
Louisa nodded, her heart pounding in her chest as Nikki released her. Nikki paced back and forth for a tense moment before revealing her plan. "Keep up the charade of being nice to Carissa, but keep a close eye on her. If you can win her trust, she'll open up to you."
Louisa frowned, feeling a surge of apprehension. "She's quite secretive..."
