Undercover Vengeance and Hidden Lies

part 23

*Downtown Chicago, Late Afternoon*

Matthew and Moris were wandering through downtown Chicago, their work having wrapped up earlier than expected. The bustling city was alive with people, and the vibrant atmosphere was a stark contrast to the quieter surroundings of his life.

Matthew walked with a sense of detachment, his mind occupied with the ongoing issues back at the mansion. Moris, on the other hand, was visibly excited, taking in the sights and sounds of the city with enthusiasm.

Moris: This city is amazing, Matthew! Look at that architecture! It’s incredible.

Moris said with enthusiasm, gesturing to a nearby skyscraper. Matthew gave a noncommittal grunt, his gaze scanning the crowd.

Matthew: Yeah, it’s impressive. But we should stay focused. We don’t have much time.

Moris shrugged, his excitement undiminished.

Moris: Come on, Matthew, lighten up. We’re in one of the most iconic cities in the world! We should at least enjoy ourselves a bit.

Matthew didn’t respond, his attention drifting as he kept an eye out for anything that might distract him from his current thoughts.

As they approached a corner café, Moris’s voice broke through Matthew’s reverie.

Moris: Hey, did you see that? Over there, by the café.

Matthew’s gaze followed Moris’s pointing finger. He squinted, noticing a girl in the crowd who looked strikingly familiar. His heart skipped a beat as he realized she resembled Kate.

Matthew: Wait, Moris, Look closely. Is that--

Matthew said urgently, grabbing Moris’s arm. Moris peered intently at the girl.

Moris: she looks like her. But could it really be Kate?

Before Moris could finish his sentence, the girl turned around, and Matthew’s heart raced with a mix of recognition and alarm. It was indeed Kate. Her eyes widened with fear upon spotting them.

Matthew: Oh my God, it’s her!, KATE, STOP!

Matthew exclaimed, his voice a mixture of shock and fury.

Kate, panic-stricken, began to push through the crowd, trying desperately to escape. Matthew shoved his way forward, his frustration and anger making him more determined to catch her.

Moris: Matthew, wait! The crowd’s too dense. You won’t get through!

Moris called out, trying to keep up. Matthew’s eyes were locked on Kate’s retreating figure.

Matthew: I can’t lose her. I need to catch her!

Moris, trying to catch his breath, watched as Matthew fought his way through the sea of people.

Moris: Matthew, slow down! It’s no use--

Matthew, sweat pouring down his face, kept pushing through the crowd until he finally broke free, only to find that Kate had vanished. His shoulders sagged in frustration, and he looked around, his face flushed with anger.

Moris caught up with him, his expression reflecting a mix of disbelief and concern.

Moris: Did you see where she went? Was that really Kate?

Matthew’s rage was palpable.

Matthew: Yes, it was her. I had her in my sights, and now she’s gone.

Moris looked puzzled, his concern mounting.

Moris: How did she even get here? Wasn’t John supposed to be with her? Did she manage to escape?