Forced Luxury

27

Matt's P.O.V

"We have to figure out whatever Leonardo's planning as soon as possible." Dan concludes.

"Whatever it is.. It can't be good." I add.

"He did whisper something in Gracie's ear-" Dan recalls.

"Yes! I tried asking Gracie but before she could say anything, he interrupted our conversation.. moreover, they apparently met before."

"WHAT!?" Dan's perplexed.

"Yeah.. I also just found out. Gracie said he'd come to meet her the night we were out partying at Violet's."

"AGH! I should have instructed the guards not to let him in! I wonder what did he talk to her about."

"Wait a minute.. do you think that.. i mean could it be that-"

"Gracie's on his side?" Dan completes my sentence.

"Unlikely.. but not impossible." He adds.

"So we'll have to keep a close eye on these two-" I say.

"Three, actually." He corrects me.

"Three? Ah yes three! But for the time being we should lay low until my father leaves. If he finds anything suspicious, trust me, he will get to the depth of the matter."

"Yeah you're right. Uncle should not get a sniff of this-"

"A sniff of what?" This resounding thick voice echoes at the entrance.

"DAD!"
"UNCLE ED!"

Both young men say simultaneously. They both respected and feared Mr Broadbridge at the same time. Above all, they had always seen him as this strict, rigid person, a thoroughly opposite version of what Gracie thinks of Matt's father. Clearly, he has been more stern with the boys.

"What is going on here?" Dad questions us.

"Uh nothing!" I almost stutter. He does not look convinced.

"What's to hide now Matt." Huhh what is he saying?!

"Uncle actually, Matt and I were planning something for you! A small get together and maybe getting some drinks and have a nice time you know.." Dan saves the day!

"Ahh! Very thoughtful of you. You know what! I know just the place! The Barnyard Bliss!" Dad exclaims.

"Oh yes! It's been a while since we last went there.." Dan replies.

"You still remember how your father and I would take you guys to spend the holidays there?!"

"Yes of course. How can I forget those days. Right Matt?"

This talk unconsciously brings up a smile on my face.

Matt reminisces the good old days at that farmhouse where his friendship with Dan would strengthen with every stay. This place undoubtedly held the loveliest memories of their childhood.

"Your father absolutely loved the Barnyard Bliss. It was our escape from the hassles of work where we'd meet up and have some drinks on the weekends."

"Hah, I'm sure the three of us will have an amazing time together there!" I blurt out ecstatically.

"What do you mean three? What about Leonardo?" Dad asks.

"Uh he's got some work tonight so he won't be able to make it there. We so wished to have him with us but he said he's got something important to deal with!" I lie blatantly.

"Ahh I see. Let's bring along Miss Gracie then!" Dad replies.

"No!" Dan ends up yelling out-

The guys do not want to risk bringing Gracie out because at the end of the day.. she is a prisoner.