Undercover Vengeance and Hidden Lies

part 32

*Matthew’s Bedroom*

The room was dimly lit, the soft glow from a bedside lamp casting a warm light across the space. Matthew lay halfly on the on the bed, now wearing fresh clothes, his back was resting  on the headboard, his face etched with fatigue and pain. Kate entered, her concern evident in her eyes.

Kate: Matthew.  *she said softly, approaching him*  I’m going to get the first aid kit.

Matthew shook his head slightly.

Matthew: It’s not necessary. I’m fine.

Kate’s expression softened but remained firm.

Kate: You’re not fine. You’re hurt, and you need treatment. Please, let me help.

Matthew hesitated but saw the determination in her eyes. With a sigh, he relented.

Matthew: Alright. Get the kit. It's in the bathroom shelf.

Kate smiled in relief and hurried to fetch the first aid kit from the bathroom. She returned and sat beside Matthew on the bed, her movements careful and gentle.

Kate: Now, let’s take care of these bruises.

She said, opening the kit and examining his injuries. Matthew’s chest bore several dark cuts and scratches, and his face had a few bruises.

Kate began by cleaning the wounds with antiseptic. She gently dabbed at the cuts on Matthew’s chest, her touch light but steady. As she worked, Matthew’s eyes followed her every movement, a loving gaze softening his stern expression.

Kate noticed his intense stare and smiled.

Kate: What? Can’t handle a little first aid?

Matthew chuckled softly, wincing slightly as she applied pressure to a particularly sore spot.

Matthew: I can handle it. I’m just... enjoying the view.

Kate looked up, her cheeks flushing slightly.

Kate: Oh, really? You’re not in pain?

Matthew: only the good kind.  *Matthew replied, his tone playful*  You make everything better.

Kate laughed softly, shaking her head.

Kate: You’re incorrigible. I’m just doing my job.

Matthew: Your job?  *Matthew teased*  I’m pretty sure it involves a lot more than just patching me up.

Kate’s eyes twinkled with amusement as she finished cleaning a cut on his chest.

Kate: And what else does it involve, Mr. Matthew?

Matthew’s gaze softened, his voice low.

Matthew: It involves making me fall for you more every day.

Kate’s heart skipped a beat, her hands pausing in their work.

Kate: What did you just say?

Matthew: I love you.

Matthew said, his voice firm but tender.

Kate’s eyes widened in shock.

Kate: What? Could you... could you repeat that?

Matthew looked into her eyes, his expression sincere.

Matthew: I love you, Kate. I’ve been meaning to tell you how I feel. I’ve felt this way for some time now. I dont know when and how you crept slowly into my life....all I know is you everywhere. Maybe it was the pain I saw in your eyes that made me want to love it out of you.