Chapter 34: Secrets in the Dark

It was morning when Kristen woke up in an unfamiliar room. The dim light filtered through a small, dirty window, casting eerie shadows on the bare concrete walls. The air was damp and musty, and the only sound was the distant hum of machinery. Her hands and feet were bound with rough ropes, and her mouth was covered with duct tape. She felt weak and disoriented. Although she wanted to cry, she held back her tears, aware that her pregnancy was at risk.

She tried to find a way to untie her hands but struggled against the tightly wound knots. Moments later, she heard the door creak open and stopped what she was doing. A man, wearing a facemask and cap, appeared before her

"If you think you can escape, you're mistaken," he broke the silence.

She glared at him, unable to ask who he was or why he had kidnapped her.

"You know, if it were up to me, you wouldn't be here. You'd be six feet under by now. But be grateful to my brother—be grateful he loves you." That was all he said before leaving