Chapter 1

Katherine

Seriously, what kind of father would demand their daughter to do this chore? I groaned in disgust. Only mine will. Yeah, going to a shady club alone to just you know, hang around. This was totally normal for me and me being a Harvard student would fit in perfectly, not conspicuous at all.

I would tell you that I was a spy, but then I'd have to kill you which would be rather inconvenient for me. So I'd rather not but you get my drift.

This was why I was standing in front of the bathroom mirror and checking my appearance furiously, as if I was going to meet Mr Trump. I put on heavy eyeliner and lipstick. Yes, I look naturally gothic now. Awesome.

Finally, I was minimally satisfied with my appearance and moved on to my outfit. A dark blue dress with some killer heels. I tried to comb my hair into submission, but my curly brown hair didn't seem to cooperate much.

Frustrated after a while, I gave up. This would do. I checked the wall clock of my Mandarin Hotel that I was currently staying at. 7:30 . I still had loads of free time on my hands.

Anyone would think that I was a tourist, merely visiting California for a holiday. In actual fact, my breaks from Harvard university meant that I could attend to other matters during that time. By other matters it usually meant taking up a part time job. However, this time it was different. My dad and possibly my sister might be in trouble and I had to save them before it's too late.

However, this mission seemed shady to me because I was not given specific instructions. How was I supposed to know what to do? As irritated as I was, I didn't want to question my dad's authority, considering my whole family's assets were at stake.

I took out my phone and called Emily, my partner in crime. It was always wise to bring backup, just in case. "Hello?" She picked up on the third ring. Briefly, I told her about the plan but was careful not to reveal too much. "Alright, see you there."

She was my roommate at Harvard and was also extremely competent at coding. Ever since we were roommates, she has been my best friend and sidekick. Although she knew that I was wealthy, she has never resented me.

She was visiting her family nearby, so I'd thought that it would be good if she could keep an eye out as well.

7:45. I'd better get going. It would take at least thirty minutes to get there, and I didn't want to be late or I'll get whacked.

I grabbed my bag, carefully checking every essential item. My wallet, phone. I brought a gun with me just in case. I shouldn't have to use it, if things go according to plan. That's if there is actually a plan and not a trap.

Taking one last look around my room, I was out. As if on cue, my cellphone buzzed. There was a text from my professor, Mr Williams. "Remember to read pg 10-" I shut my phone before the message was even halfway read. Ain't nobody got time for that.

I strutted into the elevator, humming a tune. There was a couple in the lift making out. I cleared my throat loudly, attempting to cover the noises they were making but I wasn't successful of course. Geez, get a room but please don't use the elevator.

The elevator ride was painfully long before we reached the carpark. I literally walked as fast as possible to my car without breaking my ankle. I switched on the GPS and pulled out of the carpark quickly.

Finally, I parked my car in a parking lot three blocks away. I checked my watch. 8:25. Emily would have already arrived. You can do this, Kate. Show them who's boss.

The sky was already a little dark at that time and a little chilly. I threw on a matching jacket and started towards Jefferson road. I jogged a little to keep myself from feeling colder than I was.

The street was deserted with only a few people roaming the streets. The streetlamps were the only light source that illuminated the sidewalk. Most of the shops were closed by then. Continuing down the paths, the streets started to become more lively and a bustling nightlife ensued.

Finally, at the corner of Jefferson Road, there it was. The Heartthrob. I did a little research beforehand and according to what I found, it was supposed to be the oldest club in this region, dating back to the 60s. It was also infamous for its illegal activities.

However, what I've researched could not give it enough credit. The large pink neon sign was impossible to miss with its imposing appearance. Outside, a long queue began forming to enter the club. I noted that they were mostly smart looking middle-aged men.

My phone buzzed and I took it out. It was from my Dad. I'd trust that you'd have reached by now. I want you to locate a young man named Spencer and say that you have news for him. That would be all.

Oh, that's all. It sounded easy. Gotta check on Emily first. I texted Emily quickly. Where are you?

Someone tapped me on my shoulder. It was Emily. "I'm so relieved to see you. I need your help." I said casually, so as not to draw attention to ourselves.

"Sure, anything I can do." She smiled. She was dressed formally too.

"I need to find a person called Spencer."

"Spencer? Oh he's the bouncer." She said, pointing at the burly guy at the front of the club.

"Wow. Good job." I said appreciatively.      

Alright. Here goes nothing. Dragging Emily along, I walked to the front of the line confidently, ignoring the looks of disgust from the people in the line.

"The back of the line is there, young lady." The bouncer said firmly, glaring at me with steely eyes. He was bald and frankly a little intimidating with his extensive tattoos and nose piercing. Get a grip, Kate.

I took a deep breath. "Here me out please. I have news for you."

After I uttered those words, his expression altered slightly. "This way please, both of you." He said, guiding us towards the back of the club.

"Roland!" He shouted and signaled someone else to help with the customers.

He brought us towards a small sitting area of the club, beside a huge boxing ring.

"Here she is, Damien." Spencer gestured to me, towards someone standing a few feet away.

The first thing I noticed about him was his dark brown eyes that twinkled slightly. They regarded me shrewedly, missing nothing. His light hair danced under the disco lights of the club. Instantly, I was captivated in his presence. It was lucky the room was dark that he didn't see me blushing under his gaze.

"You must be wondering why you're here." He spoke suddenly, a smile playing on his lips.

"But first, let's get some drinks." He gestured to a waitress and spoke quietly to her. I wondered what was he talking about.

"So, tell me your name." Damien said in amusement.

"I thought you would already know." I said, rolling my eyes.

"Yes, I do. But I want to hear you say it."

"Psycho." I blurted out without thinking.

"What did you say? I'm a little deaf." He said innocently.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes again. He was so irritating. But hot.

"Why not you introduce yourself first? I'll be so excited to hear it."

"Don't copy my tricks. It's getting old, Trent."

"It's Katherine. Don't ever call me that." I snapped at him.

"Going on a first name basis already, Trent? I say you move fast." Damien smirked, seemingly oblivious to my outburst.

"Enough of this, Damien. Now tell me what's going on."