Celestina paced the length of her office, her thoughts spiraling out of control. Dimitri’s words to Nivea the previous night echoed in her mind. You’ve become important to me. What did that mean? Why had he said it? The more she thought about it, the more convinced she became that something wasn’t right.

Her hands tightened into fists. “They’re hiding something from me,” she muttered to herself. “But I’ll find out what it is.”

Her mind was made up. Celestina decided she needed to keep a closer eye on both Dimitri and Nivea, even if it meant crossing lines she wouldn’t have before.

The next morning, Nivea requested an audience with Celestina. She stood nervously in the doorway of the presidential office, her usual composure replaced with uncertainty.

“Madam President,” Nivea began, her voice hesitant, “I’d like to step down from my role as your double.”

Celestina blinked, caught off guard. “Step down? Why?”

Nivea fidgeted with her hands, avoiding Celestina’s sharp gaze. “I don’t feel safe. After the bomb threat and everything else, it’s just… it’s too much for me. I’m not cut out for this.”

Before Celestina could respond, Dimitri walked into the room, his expression serious. “Nivea, we need to talk,” he said, glancing briefly at Celestina.

Celestina narrowed her eyes. “This is between her and me, Dimitri.”

Dimitri ignored her and addressed Nivea instead. “You can’t leave now.