Chapter 253: Sensing It

February 3rd, 2028

In a dimly lit office within the CIA's Manila station, Agents John Harris and Stacy Mitchell were deep in discussion, outlining their next steps to intensify surveillance on Reyes Corporation. The room was filled with the hum of computers and the soft glow of multiple monitors displaying various feeds and data points related to Michael Reyes and his company.

"Alright, we need to move quickly and discreetly," Harris said, his eyes scanning a list of potential contacts. "First, let's identify key employees who might be susceptible to bribes."

Mitchell nodded, already pulling up profiles on her laptop. "We have a few targets in mind. Lower-level employees are often easier to approach, especially those with financial difficulties or personal issues."

Harris pointed to a name on the screen. "Carlos Mendoza. He's already shown a willingness to talk. We should consider offering him a significant bribe to become a regular informant."

"Agreed," Mitchell replied. "I'll set up a discreet meeting with him tonight. Meanwhile, we need to look at installing surveillance equipment inside Reyes Corporation's headquarters and facilities."

"Yes," Harris said, pulling out a burner phone to make a call. "I have a contact who specializes in covert installations. He can get us cameras and microphones inside without raising any suspicions."

As Harris made the call, Mitchell began drafting a detailed plan for tracking Reyes Corporation employees. "We'll need to monitor their movements, both inside and outside the office. GPS tracking devices on their vehicles and surveillance on their personal devices should give us a comprehensive view of their activities."

Harris finished his call and turned back to Mitchell. "Our guy can start tonight. He'll need access to the building after hours. Can you arrange that?"

"I'll handle it," Mitchell assured. "I'll also set up a team to follow the key employees outside of work. We'll need eyes on them 24/7."

Later that evening, Mitchell sat in a dimly lit café, waiting for Carlos Mendoza. He arrived looking nervous and glanced around before sitting across from her.

"Thank you for coming, Carlos," Mitchell said, her voice calm and reassuring. "We appreciate your cooperation so far. We need you to continue helping us."

On the evening of February 5th, Michael was in his office, going over the latest performance reports of the VR systems. Sales were skyrocketing despite the recent lawsuit against VirtuReal Innovations.

"Michael, here are the latest updates from the R&D department," Juliet said, placing the documents on his desk.

"Thanks, Juliet," Michael replied, glancing up. "Anything I should be aware of?"

"Just some minor tweaks to the neural interface," Juliet said. "The team believes it will improve the user experience significantly."

"Good," Michael said, nodding. "I am going to take my lunch break."

***

Michael stepped out of the office, deciding to take his lunch break outside. The bustling atmosphere of Bonifacio Global City (BGC) always helped him clear his mind. He walked down the corridors, passing by the ground floor lobby, and then out onto the busy streets.

As he made his way to one of his favorite restaurants, Michael couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched. He glanced over his shoulder, scanning the crowd, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. People were going about their business, seemingly unaware of his presence.

Reaching the restaurant, Michael chose a table near the window, giving him a clear view of the street outside. He ordered his meal and settled in, trying to focus on the latest updates from the R&D department. Yet, the nagging sensation of being observed persisted.

He looked up from his documents and casually surveyed the area. There were a few people who seemed to linger a bit too long, their gazes darting away whenever he glanced in their direction. A man in a business suit was pretending to read a newspaper, but his eyes kept shifting towards Michael. A woman at a nearby table was typing on her phone, but she too seemed overly interested in his actions.

Michael's instincts, honed over years of dealing with corporate espionage, told him something was off. He decided to finish his meal quickly and return to the office. He left a generous tip and exited the restaurant.

Walking back to his office, one idea popped up in his mind.

"I really need to bolster my defense."