Madeleine, or at least she was Madeleine for this year, really enjoyed working with Mr. Alastaire. For an eccentric multi-millionaire, he really wasn’t the worst employer. It was almost a pity, she thought while downloading the company files onto an encrypted USB, that he was a mark. Didn’t stop the process, but it is a pity that the assignment was coming to an end. This one didn’t overindulge in sins and actually participated in meaningful philanthropy. "Too bad", she shrugged as the download came to an end.

"Too bad indeed, Madeleine", came a voice at the same time as she heard the tell-tale click of the safety coming off the gun. "I really did like you; you’re a lot pluckier than the usual espionage sort sent before you."

Madeleine swallowed, wondering how he got the drop on her, but kept her composure as she turned around to face Mr. Alastaire. "I could explain, but then I would be lying."

Mr. Alastaire came closer, pressing his Glock to her sternum. "Lie to me anyways, darling. What’s a girl like you doing stealing proprietary information?"