Mike followed Rhea, noticing nothing unusual until his second circuit of the city.
'She doesn't seem to be trying to shake me. Did she...notice me?' The car ahead suddenly accelerated as the thought struck him. He instinctively floored the gas pedal and gave chase. The two cars raced through the quiet night.
Mike was almost certain Rhea knew she was being followed and had deliberately circled. Realizing this, he ceased trying to remain unnoticed and quickly caught up. Rhea began to slow down, but Mike maintained his speed, overtaking her and expertly maneuvering his car in front of hers. Rhea braked sharply, narrowly avoiding a collision.
Mike exited his car and approached hers. Rhea remained seated, watching him with a leisurely air. Though her face was obscured, her demeanor betrayed a self-satisfied amusement. He knocked on her window; she lowered it, cocking her head. "Yes?"
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Mike asked.
Rhea removed her sunglasses. "I should be asking you that. Following me for two days straight? Must have a lot of free time, huh?" she teased.
"Rhea, what the hell have you been up to?" Mike demanded. "I don't believe the boss is your only bargaining chip. What else are you hiding?"
Rhea smiled. "It's none of your goddamn business. Besides, shouldn't you be looking for Lily and the organization? You don't think I kidnapped Lily, do you?"
Mike knew Rick had taken Lily, and Rhea wasn't a core member; still, he sensed her deception. "It's okay if you don't want to tell me," he said, "But if you're not sincere in working with me, we might as well part ways."
He turned to leave.
"Mike!" Rhea called.
He stopped, turning back. The night breeze lifted her netted veil, revealing a seductive glimpse, but Mike knew her beauty masked danger. She gazed at him, her smile deepening. "You want to know my secret? Come with me then."