His Vengeance

Chapter 7

Nicole

*Flashback*

"Remember, the more you learn and practice, the better you'll become." Matt, my bodyguard, and my dad's trusted friend, repeated his instruction for what felt like the hundredth time that afternoon.

"I understand, Uncle Matt. But why are we doing this again?" I asked as I loaded my gun.

We were at the shooting range at 4 p.m., right after my classes for the day. My body was slowly giving up on me.

He smiled a smile that concealed many answers while appearing casual and polite.

"It's to prepare you for future challenges," he replied succinctly.

I cocked my gun.

"Future challenges where I have to shoot someone?"

"It's important to be ready for unexpected situations that may arise," I said, aiming my gun at the dummy across the room. Closing one eye, I focused on my target.

"You make it sound like my life is about to be in constant danger," I said sarcastically, and he chuckled.

"Perhaps." As he uttered that final word, I started shooting immediately.

*Flashback ended*

I hadn't truly processed his words until now. After all the training and conversations with Uncle Matt, the purpose behind it all finally dawned on me.

Back then, I was ignorant and careless. I didn't take what was happening seriously, nor did I show enough curiosity about Uncle Matt's teachings and their significance.

I'm lost in time, unaware of the current day or time. I have no idea what's happening outside that door. I'm ignorant about everything.

Questions fill my mind, threatening to overwhelm me. I fear I might explode if I don't find answers.

My body is weak, my head throbs with pain. I feel repulsive after being tied to this chair for so long without a shower, losing track of the passing days.

My eyes slowly open at the sound of a door opening, and I raise my head to see who it is.

It's her once again.

Sofia enters, carrying a tray in her hands.

"Oh God, are you okay? What did she do to you?" She bombards me with questions, placing the tray on the table and rushing to my side.

"I can handle it," I croak. She inspects me, pushing my hair away from my face.

"I swear, I'll make her pay for doing this to you. She messed up your face badly." I scoff.

"And stating the obvious will somehow help?" She lets her hand drop and sheepishly smiles at me.

"Sorry. Let me clean those cuts for you." She retrieves a bowl of water and a cotton wool-tipped tweezer from the table.

Kneeling in front of me, she dips the cotton wool in the water and gently dabs it on my face.

I try not to wince as the cold water meets my wounded skin. She continues dabbing, rambling on about ways to take down Sienna, making it look like an accident.

Since she's the only one who regularly visits me, the only one who cares for me and provides food, I admit she's a good person. For now.

"Here, you should eat something." She holds a sandwich to my mouth, and I take small bites, washing it down with water from the glass she holds.

"Can I use your phone?" Confusion and suspicion flicker in her eyes.

"I just want to see myself in the camera," I reassure her, and her expression instantly relaxes. She takes out her phone from her pocket, opens the camera app, and turns the screen to me.

I groan at the sight of my face.

"I look awful." Sofia chuckles. I notice a long gash running from the corner of my left eye down to my cheekbone. A bruise is beginning to form around my right eye. There are several small cuts on my jaw and a visible handprint on my right cheek.

Sofia slips her phone back into her pocket and gives me a sympathetic look.

"Nicole-" I shake my head, signaling for her to stop.

"Don't. I don't need pity or constant apologies, even if it's not your fault." She sighs and places her hand on my shoulder.

"I know they have different opinions of you, but I believe you're not who they say you are. Honestly, I've never met anyone as brave and strong as you." Our eyes meet, and a small smile forms on my lips.

"Thank you," I mutter.

"I'm going to make sure you get out of here, Nicole. Just hang in there, okay?" I chuckle and nod.

She smiles at me, grabs her tray, and exits the room.

She's right about me being brave and strong.

Remember Uncle Matt's words of encouragement, Nicole! You can overcome this and escape in one piece.

Stay calm and hold yourself together, Nicole. You can do this.