Undercover Vengeance and Hidden Lies

part 38

*At Gray's  Mansion*
*At Kate's room*

The morning sun began to filter through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. Kate stirred gently, her eyes fluttering open. She blinked, realizing she was nestled comfortably in Matthew's arms, the warmth of his body a reassuring presence.

Matthew, still half-asleep, noticed Kate’s waking movements. He stirred, shifting slightly to face her with a sleepy smile.

Matthew: Good morning, kitty.

Kate, still a little groggy, returned his smile, though it was tinged with a hint of shyness.

Kate: Good morning, Matthew.

Matthew, his eyes twinkling with a mix of affection and mischief, leaned in closer.

Matthew: You know, I was hoping for a good morning kiss. It would make my day start perfectly.

Kate’s cheeks flushed a soft pink as she hesitated, her gaze lowering. She bit her lip, struggling to suppress a shy smile.

Kate: I… I don’t know…

Matthew, sensing her hesitation, gave her an encouraging look, his expression one of playful longing.

Matthew: Come on, just a little peck. I promise it will make me very happy.

Kate finally looked up at him, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of shyness and affection. With a soft sigh, she leaned in, giving him a gentle peck on the lips.

Matthew, however, wasn’t ready to let it end there. He took her face in his hands, deepening the kiss gently but passionately. Kate’s initial surprise melted into a more responsive kiss, her arms wrapping around his neck as she returned his affection.

Matthew broke the kiss after a few moments, his voice low and tender.

Matthew: That was perfect. Thank you.

Kate, her cheeks still flushed but her smile more genuine, rested her forehead against his.

Kate: You’re insistent, aren’t you?

Matthew chuckled softly, his hands still cradling her face.

Matthew: Only when it comes to you. You make everything better.

Kate: Matthew, I need to go to My Mansion. I want to see Aunt Harper. It’s important.

Matthew, still groggy from sleep, frowned as he recalled the events from the previous night.

Matthew: I don’t think that’s a good idea. Your father—Andrew—could be dangerous. And Olivia might--

Kate interrupted, her eyes widening with a plea.

Kate: Please, Matthew. I just need to see Aunt Harper. She’s like a mother to me. I promise I’ll be careful. I need to do this.

Matthew sighed, conflicted. He didn't want to put her in any danger, but he could see how much this meant to her. Her earnest gaze and soft, pleading expression were hard to resist.

Matthew: Alright, Kate. But only if you promise to be careful and stay in touch. I don’t want you getting involved with---

Kate hugged him tightly, her voice muffled against his chest.

Kate: Thank you, Matthew. I promise I’ll be careful. I just need to see her.

*Time skip*

As they were about to leave, John burst into the room with urgency.

John: Sir, we caught a man near the mansion. He was stalking the place. We need to interrogate him.

Matthew’s face darkened with concern and anger. He turned to Kate, his tone firm.