Undercover Vengeance and Hidden Lies

part 19

*At Matthew’s Secret Mansion*
*Kate’s Room, Early Morning*

The next morning, Matthew arrived at the secret mansion with John and Moris. The mansion, isolated and heavily guarded, was designed to ensure Kate’s captivity was secure.

As Matthew entered Kate’s room, Matthew observed her as she lay asleep on a modest bed, her face peaceful. He approached the bed and sat beside her, his expression a mix of anger and reluctant tenderness. He gently cupped her cheeks, his fingers brushing against her skin as he looked down at her.

Matthew: Kate.

he murmured softly, though his voice held an edge of menace.

Matthew: You need to wake up. We have matters to discuss.

Kate stirred but did not wake. Matthew’s frustration grew. He picked up a jug of water from the side table and, with a decisive motion, splashed it over her face. The cold water shocked her awake. She gasped, sitting up abruptly, her face wet and her eyes wide with panic.

Kate: What--what’s happening?

she stammered, her gaze darting around the room until it landed on Matthew’s stern face.

Matthew’s tone was harsh and uncompromising.

Matthew: Kate, we need to talk.

Kate’s fear was palpable as she looked at him, her voice trembling.

Kate: Please, don’t---what do you want from me?

Matthew’s anger flared.

Matthew: You think you can just ignore what’s happening?.... I’m heading to Chicago for six days. During that time, John will be watching you.

He grabbed her arm and roughly pulled her from the bed. Her legs wobbled as she followed him down the stairs, her fear and vulnerability evident in her every step.

At the bottom of the stairs stood John, his imposing presence a stark contrast to Kate’s fragile state. Matthew gestured toward him.

Matthew: This is John. He’s one of my most trusted bodyguards. He’ll make sure you don’t try to escape.

John’s face was stern as he stepped forward.

John: I’ll be keeping a close eye on you. No attempts to flee, understood?

Kate’s voice wavered with desperation.

Kate: Please, I don’t understand why this is happening. I’m not involved in anything.

Matthew’s gaze remained hard, though his tone softened slightly.

Matthew: It’s not about what you understand. It’s about your father’s actions. You’re part of the retribution now.

Tears streamed down Kate’s cheeks as she looked at Matthew, her body trembling.

Kate: Please, I don’t know what he did. I’m just---

Matthew cut her off with a steely glare.

Matthew: Save your pleas. You’re staying here until I decide otherwise. John will ensure you don’t leave. And don't cry it's hu--.......it's irritating me.

With that, Matthew turned to Moris.

Matthew: We need to head to the airport. Is our jet ready?

Moris nodded curtly and followed Matthew out of the mansion. As they left, Moris’s expression was cold and unfeeling, a stark contrast to Kate’s emotional turmoil. The drive to the airport was marked by the anticipation of their business trip, while the harsh reality of Kate’s situation lingered behind them.