Undercover Vengeance and Hidden Lies

part 37

*Flashback of Matthew's past*

Sofia, Vincent, and their eight-year-old son, Matthew, were the picture of a happy, ordinary family. Sofia was a warm and cheerful presence at work, loved by her colleagues for her dedication and bright personality. At home, she was a devoted wife and mother, creating a haven of joy with her husband, Vincent, and their young son, Matthew. Vincent, a supportive and loving partner, and Matthew, their energetic and playful child, completed their close-knit family unit. Their lives were filled with the simple pleasures of family activities—dinners together, weekend outings, and bedtime stories.

One evening, sofia arrived home, her demeanor noticeably changed. Her usually bright eyes were clouded, her laughter absent. Vincent immediately sensed that something was terribly wrong.

Vincent: Sofia, what happened?

Vincent asked, his voice laced with concern.

Sofia, with tears streaming down her face, finally broke down.

Sofia: Vincent … my boss, Mr. Andrew … he... he assaulted me at the office. I didn’t know who else to turn to.

Vincent's face went pale.

Vincent: What? I’ll go to the police. We’ll get this sorted out.

He rushed to the police station, only to be met with cold indifference. The officers, aware of Andrew's influence and criminal ties, dismissed Vincent's pleas.

Police: Mr. Andrew is a powerful man. We can't do much against him *one officer said dismissively* You’re better off staying quiet.

A few days later, Andrew, having learned of Sofia's complaint through his extensive network, decided to visit their home. The darkness outside matched the foreboding feeling that had settled in the house. Sofia, trembling, clung to Vincent as Andrew's menacing silhouette appeared at the door.

Andrew: Good evening.

Andrew said, his voice dripping with malice as he entered.

Andrew: I understand there’s been some... complaints. How unfortunate.

Sofia's fear was palpable.

Sofia: Please, just go away. We don’t want any trouble.

Vincent stepped in front of her protectively.

Vincent: YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO BE HERE. LEAVE US ALONE!

Andrew smirked, relishing the fear he saw in Sofia's eyes.

Andrew: Oh, I think I do. You see, I believe in making examples.

The confrontation quickly escalated into a brutal fight. Vincent, fueled by desperation and rage, tried to fend off Andrew, but the latter’s strength and skill proved overwhelming. The struggle was violent and unforgiving, with punches and kicks exchanged in a chaotic dance of survival.

Matthew, awakened by the commotion, emerged from his room. His small face was etched with terror as he saw his parents in danger. Sofia rushed to him, trying to shield him, but Andrew's men grabbed the child.

Sofia: No! Please, leave him alone! MATTHEW!!

Matthew: Let me go!!

Sofia cried, trying to reach out to her son.