215: IN THE DARK LUKE’S POV I woke up to the sound of loud, upbeat music blaring from the living room of my mansion. I groggily rubbed my eyes and checked the time. At precisely 8:00 in the morning, I was astounded that someone was already playing loud music. Curiosity getting the best of me, I slowly made my way downstairs to the living room. Ast approached, the music only grew louder. I was met with a sight that made me burst out laughing In the middle of the room were Randy and Ethan, dancing their hearts out. They were both completely lost in the music, moving their bodies in wild and erratic motions. I couldn’t help but join in on their infectious joy. “What on earth are you two doing?” I asked, trying to stifle my laughter. “We’re dancing!” Ethan exclaimed, twirling around and almost losing his balance. “Yeah, we found this cool song and couldn’t resist,” Randy chimed in, still bouncing around to the beat. I couldn’t help but smile at their innocence and carefree nature. “Well, you two certainly know how to start the day off right,” I said, still chuckling. Ethan’s eyes–lit up, and he grabbed my hand. “Come on, Luke! You have to dance with us,” he insisted. I hesitated, knowing I had to get ready for work. “I don’t think I have time, buddy. I have to get ready for work,” I explained, trying to free my hand from his grip. But Randy had other plans. “No way! You have to dance with us, or else we won’t let you leave the house,” he declared. I couldn’t resist their playful challenge. I let out a laugh and began to dance along with them, much to their delight. We were all jumping and twirling, completely lost in the music and the moment. Suddenly, the music stopped, and we all froze, trying to catch our breath. That’s when I heard a soft gasp from behind me. I turned around to see my aunt Mariam standing at the stairs, with a look of surprise and amusement. “I can’t believe my eyes,” she said, still in shock. I couldn’t help but grin sheepishly. “Well, it’s not every day you see me dancing like this,” I replied, feeling slightly embarrassed. She shook her head and chuckled. “No, it’s not. But it’s good to see you letting loose and having fun with the little ones.” I couldn’t agree more. Dancing with Randy and Ethan had been the perfect way to start my day. And as I got ready for work, I couldn’t stop smiling at the thought of their innocent and carefree spirits. 215 IN THE DARK They reminded me not to take life too seriously and to make time for the things that brought me joy. And by the way, my aunt and I have been getting along lately. It was quite surprising, something I ght would never happen. Who knew that this day was going to come? So there was still hope. I hope that Ariel and I will get back together once again. ARIEL’S POV I slowly made my way through my mansion’s dark, twisting hallways. The air was cold and musty, and the only light came from a single flickering torch I held. I knew exactly where I was headed–to the hidden room where I kept my captive, Harriet. As I approached the heavy wooden door, I could hear the faint sound of someone stirring inside. I grinned, knowing Harriet was awake and waiting for me. I pushed open the door and stepped into the small, dimly lit room.. Harriet was lying on the floor, her hands and feet bound with thick ropes. She slowly opened her eyes and glared at me. “Well, well, well,” I said with a chuckle. “Look who’s finally awake.” Harriet sneered at me. “What do you want, Ariel? Come to gloat about how you’ve finally captured me. I walked over to her and crouched down, looking her directly in the eyes. “Actually, I came to ask you a question. Where is my daughter?” Harriet’s expression remained defiant. “I have no idea. And even if I did, I wouldn’t tell you.” I let out a sigh and stood back up. “I really don’t understand why you’re being so difficult. Just tell me where she is, and this can all be over.” Harriet spat in my direction. “You think I’m scared of you? You’re nothing but a spoiled, entitled brat. My blood began to boil at her insults. How dare she speak to me like that? “You know what, Harriet?” I said, my voice dripping with venom. “I don’t like your attitude. Not one bit.” I walked over to a corner of the room and picked up a heavy chain that was lying on the ground. I swung it around a few times, testing its weight. Harriet’s eyes widened in fear. “What are you doing, Ariel?” I smirked at her. “I’m just teaching you a lesson.” With that, I swung the chain and hit Harriet hard across the face. She let out a blood–curdling scream as I hit her again and again. “Stop! Please, stop!” she begged. But I didn’t listen. My need for vengeance and anger fuelled me. I wanted Harriet to pay for what she had done to me. After a few minutes, I stopped and caught my breath Harriet was lying on the ground, whimpering and bloeding from her wounds. I walked over to her and crouched down once again. “Now, Harriet, let’s try this again. Where is my daughter?” Harriet glared up at me, her eyes filled with hatred. “I’ll never tell you.” I let out a frustrated sigh and stood back up. “Fine. Have it your way.” I snapped my fingers, and two large, muscular women entered the room. “Beat the hell out of her,” I ordered. The two women wasted no time in following my command. They began punching and kicking Harriet, causing her to scream and cry out in I stood back, watching with my arms crossed. I felt a sense of satisfaction as I saw Harriet finally get what she deserved. After a few minutes, I called off the women, and they left the room. Harriet was now lying on the ground, bruised and battered. “Last chance, Harriet,” I said, leaning down to her level. “Where is my daughter?” Harriet just laughed weakly. “You’ll never find her. She’s long gone.” I felt a surge of anger at her words. I grabbed the chain again without a second thought and began hitting her with it. This time, I didn’t stop until Harriet was unconscious. I stood up, breathing heavily, and looked down at her lifeless body. I knew that she was still alive, but barely. I turned and left the room, feeling satisfied and relieved. I may not have found Janice, but at least 1 had taught Harriet a good lesson. But it wasn’t over yet. No, no, it wasn’t. I would torture her every single day. She just needed some time to heal. Harriet thought she was tough all because she broke out of jail, huh? Well, I survived a bullet. And I would do whatever it takes to find Janice and bring her back to safety. No one would stand in my way. And as for Luke, I will be coming for him anytime soon.
