#224 "A Plan? With Michael? "

Michael was lounging in Alexander's chair, the picture of casual confidence, his excitement palpable in the air.

"Before I dive into the plan, there's something—or rather, someone—I want to loop into our little operation. How do you feel about getting Caroline involved?" Michael's voice was light, almost teasing, yet the underlying seriousness of his inquiry was unmistakable.

Alexander's reaction was instant, his brow furrowed in a mix of skepticism and concern. "My mother?" he echoed, his voice laced with incredulity. "I'm not comfortable dragging her into this... It's too risky. Her life could be on the line."

Michael couldn't help but let out a hearty laugh, the sound echoing off the walls of the office. "Calm down, Alexander. What do you take me for? I'm not about to put your mother in harm's way." There was a hint of amusement in his voice, yet it was clear he had given this considerable thought.

Alexander, still not entirely convinced, pressed him for details. "Then what exa