48: Stepping In To Intervene

Allison's POV.

I woke up on the cold floor, groggy and aching all over. The room was bright now, with the lights on and the curtains open, letting in the afternoon sun. I heard a Chinese song playing softly in the background and the unmistakable smell of food wafting through the air.

I slowly sat up, scanning the area. My attacker was in the kitchen, busy with something. I decided not to move, not wanting any more surprises. Instead, I stayed put and watched, waiting for the right moment.

To get the person's attention, I knocked over a nearby chair with my foot. The clattering noise echoed through the room, and suddenly, she emerged from the kitchen.

I was stunned. It was Mei Lin, a Chinese secret agent I recognized from eight years ago. She was dressed in tight black combat gear, her hair pulled back in a severe ponytail. She glared at me while eating a baozi, the traditional steamed bun.

"You finally woke up," she said, her voice cold and measured. "I've been waiting for this."

"Mei