《The Disguised Assassin》 Chapter 1: Mission1 PROLOGUE I woke up to the smell of smoke. My eyes were red with tears and I coughed uncontrobly. Why was the house burning? ten year old me thought. Did mum leave the stove on again? I crawled out of my room and stumbled towards the stairs. The fire seemed to being from down up. Suddenly, I heard a scream. ***** Chloe rinsed her face with water from the sink and dried it with the towel beside her. She stared at her reflection in the mirror for some seconds before sighing. I need to lose weight, she muttered as she cocked her gun and hid it in her skirt before covering it up with her shirt. She walked out of the toilet as one of the maids rushed in. Danielle? the maid called out. Where are you going? Names not Danielle, Chloe replied as she walked away. And Ive got work to do. Chloe walked down the hallway leading to Mr. Dawsons room. She passed by a painting on the wall and stopped. She walked back and stared at it. Yo, how much does this painting cost? she asked as she ced her fingers on her ears. Not much, a voice from the earpiece in her ears answered. Focus on your mission and forget about the painting, Chloe. Just tell me how much it costs, Chloe insisted. The voice sighed and said, Twenty thousand dors. Not worth it, Chloe said as she walked past it. Told you it wasnt much, the voice said. Now, focus on aplishing your mission. Like I wasnt, Chloe muttered. You do know I can hear you, right? the voice said and Chloe grunted. Didnt say you couldnt, she said as she walked up to Mr. Dawsons room door. Music boomed from the room and Chloe could hearughter and shouting. Having a party, Mr. Dawson? she said to herself as she pulled out her gun from her skirt and pointed it at the doors handle. She was about shooting when she heard someone gasp behind her. She turned sharply and saw it was the maid from earlier. D-danielle, she stuttered. W-why are y-you with aC Chloe didnt allow herplete her words as she pointed the gun at her and pulled the trigger. There was a PFFT sound and the maid dropped to the floor with a hole in her head. You ask too much question, she said as she turned back to the door. Good thing you had your silencer on, the voice from her earpiece said and Chloe sighed. You turned off the security cameras, right? Chloe asked and the voice replied with a grunt. Turned em off before you came out of your fancy toilet, they said. Chloe pointed to the doors handle and pulled the trigger, sting the lock off. She kicked the door and walked into the room casually. Mr. Dawsonid on the bed naked with bare chested girls surrounding him. He looked at Chloe and smiled. Came to join the party, huh? he asked as he grinned widely. His smile soon faded as he saw the gun in Chloes hand. W-wait, doC He couldntplete his words as Chloe shot him repeatedly, leaving bullet holes on his bare body. The girls around Dawson, upon seeing his bloodied body, screamed as they all ran out of the room. Girls, Chloe mumbled as she walked over to Dawsons body. She stared at him for a while before saying, he has got one big dick. Chloe ransacked Dawsons room, grabbing anything valuable she saw. After sessfully searching the whole ce, she grabbed all that she had found and put it in one of Dawsons work bag. Dont forget the file, Chloe, the voice from her earpiece said as Chloe was about walking out of the room. You forgot it, didnt you? No, I did not, Chloe lied as she walked back inside. I totally did not forget it. I mean, how can I? she said as she began searching the ce again. Suddenly, Chloe heard sirens ring outside the building. Fuck, she cussed as she increased her pace. Chloe stopped after some minutes of fruitless searching. I cant find it, she said. Have you checked under his bed? the voice asked and Chloe scoffed. She pushed Dawsons body off the bed and squatted, preparing to raise the bed up. Theres no fucking way it would be under she paused as she raised the bed up. Oh, she muttered. Officers are heading your way, Chloe! the voice screamed. Get out of the now!Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Chloe grabbed the documents, ran out of the room and turned down the hallway. She sped pass the painting from earlier and paused beforeing back to grab it. This will look beautiful in my room, she thought as she ced it under her armpit and continued her running. Chloe spotted the elevator that led to the ground floor just ahead of her and smiled as she ran towards it. Suddenly, the elevator dinged as it began opening and Chloe halted. She immediately jumped into a room beside her as the elevator door opened. Chloe peeped through the rooms door and watched as three men walked out of the elevator. You take that room and you take the other, one of them ordered the other two. Chloe heard a light gasp behind her and she turned to see a little girl, sitting on her bed and staring at her. She looked scared. Chloe ced her finger on her lips, motioning for her to keep quiet and she nodded. She smiled and turned her attention back to the men outside the door. Chloe watched as they searched the rooms, looking for her. She knew it wasnt going to take long before they got to the one she was in. I have to get out of there, she thought. Chloe, the voice said. You there? Yeah, Chloe whispered. Whered you go? Had to go get something to eat, the voice replied. How about you? You holding up? they asked. Im holding up for now, Chloe said as she watched the men get closer to her. Wont be long before they reach the room Im in. Find a way to get out of there then. Easier said than done, Chloe muttered. My ride is ready, right? Yeah, the voice replied. Had Diana put it in ce for you. Awesome, Chloe muttered. Talk to youter, she said as she tapped the earpiece, turning it off. Chloe looked around the room for a means of escape. How was she going to get out there? Her eyesnded on the window and she smiled. Eureka. Chapter 2: Mission 2 Damn, its chilly out here, Chloe screamed as she held on to the window and looked down to the streets. Fuck me, this is high, she muttered. Mum says we shouldnt cuss. Chloe turned to see the little girl still sitting on her bed and staring at her. Mum says thats a bad word. Chloe chuckled and said, you should hear what your mum says when daddys around. The little girls face suddenly went from fear to sadness as a tear fell from her eyes. Dads dead, she muttered. Chloe looked at the little girl with pity as shbacks of her parents death came to her. Me too, kid, she croaked. Me too. Chloe turned from the girl as she hung her bag around her neck and ced the painting under her armpit. She put her leg on the window frame and paused. One advice from an orphan to the fatherless, she said. Dont let your current situation determine what youll be. When life gives you lemon, you take it and beat the hell outta life. The little girl giggled as she wiped her tears with her night gown. Thanks, she mumbled and Chloe smiled. Now you go to sleep, alright? she said and the girl nodded as sheid down to sleep. Chloe looked down from the window at the fire escape below her. This is why Im never having kids, she mumbled as she jumped off the window and unto the staircase,nding with a light thud. Chloe ran down the stairs as fast as her legs could carry her. She stopped after some minutes, panting. How high am I? she thought as she stared down at the now close street. She estimated forty feet off the ground. Suddenly she heard someone yell above her, there she is! She looked up and saw the men from earlier pointing at her. Fuck, she cussed as she began descending the stairs again. She tried increasing her speed but the weight of the bag and painting slowed her down. She knew that with the rate at which she was going, they were going to catch up to her so she made a rash decision; jumping off the stairs. Chloe looked down for anything that would reduce the impact of her jump and smiled as she saw a Lamborghini parked right under her. Landing with style, she muttered as she prepared to jump off the railing. STOP RIGHT THERE! she heard someone yell. She looked up and saw someone pointing a gun at her. Damn! she screamed as she jumped off the railing. As Chloe fell, she heard gunshots being fired and bullets zinging past her. Unfortunately for her, one found its way to her right leg. She screamed as shended on the Lamborghini, shattering its windows and denting its top. Chloeid on the car as she groaned in pain. She looked down at the bullet wound.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. Fuck, thats deep, she said as she rolled off the car with a grunt and limped towards the streets. She tapped the earpiece in her ear and yelled, wheres my fucking transport?! Easy, easy, tigress, the voice replied. Had Diana drop it North east of the building. North east, Chloe muttered. That was where she was. She looked around her as she searched for her ride. Wheres the fucking transport, man? I cant see nothing, she yelled again. Its the fucking orange Lamborghini, the voice replied angrily. Chloe turned back and stared at the Lamborghini she hadnded on. Orange with ck stripes? Chloe muttered. Yeah, the voice replied. You seen it? Y-yeah, I have, she said as she tapped her earpiece turning it off. Fuck me, she muttered. How was she going to get out of there now that she had destroyed the Lamborghini? There was no way that thing could drive after what she had done to it. She searched her surroundings, looking for any vehicle she could steal. Suddenly, she heard the rumbling of a motorcycle approach her. She turned and saw a delivery man driving a Yamaha Mio Sporty,ing towards her and she motioned for him to stop. The driver stopped and she limped over to him. Hey, maam. You okaC Chloe didnt let him finish talking as she dragged him off the motorcycle to the ground. Im sorry, Handsome, but Ill need to borrow your little bike, she said smiling. What the fu the driver paused upon seeing Chloe pull out a gun and point it towards him. She put her hands to her lips and the man nodded, raising his hands in surrender. Good boy, Chloe muttered as she tapped his cheek and got off him. She limped over to the bike, put the painting in front of the it and turned on its engine. The bike roared to life and sheughed loudly as she zoomed off down the streets. Suddenly, Chloe heard sirens ring behind me. She turned and saw four police vehicles right behind her. Why dont these guys give up? she muttered. This is the NYPD, one of the men red through a megaphone. Park your vehicle now and put your hands behind your back. Like anyone ever does that, Chloe shouted back angrily. She pulled out her gun and pointed it to the police caring right behind her. She tried shooting at the driver but her one hand could not keep her bike steady as it swerved from left to right, causing her to miss her shots. She tried shooting again and after three shots, she got the car at its tyre. The cars tyre screeched as its driver applied its brake and it came to a stop after hitting an electric pole. Bulls eye, Chloe screamed as sheughed maniacally. Three more to go. Chloe sped into the freeway with the remaining police cars behind her. She knew the police werent going to shoot at her since they were in the main road. Chloe increased her bike speed and the police cars did same. She spotted an alleyway ahead of her and she swerved towards it. Two of the police cars chasing her could not maje the same turn as they collided with two jeeps in front of them. Two down, one more to go, Chloe said as she sped down the alleyway with the remaining car following behind her closely. The alleyway suddenly began to get smaller and the car chasing her could not keep up as it got stuck. Chloe looked back at the car and cackled loudly as she sped away. Chapter 3: “You’re a son of a billionaire for fuck sake” Damn it, John screamed as he hit his steering wheel repeatedly in anger. Calm down, John, Justin said as he held his friend. We will surely get her next time. Next time? John screamed angrily as he shoved Justins hand from his shoulder. There might not be a next time. Do you know how long I have been waiting to get one Derricks associate, any, just to have one slip out of my fucking hands. Justin sighed and said, we received the call from the hotel toote andC Toote or not, we should have gotten her, man, John screamed as he interrupted Justin. We might have camete but when we came she was there, he said as he sighed. I should have searched that little girls room first. Bro, dont take it all on yourself, Justin said as he tried consoling his friend. Lets just find a way outta here and back to the apartment so we can take our rest because Im fucking tired. John sighed and nodded. Yeah, youre right, he said as turned on the car. Lets go home. John changed the cars gear to reverse and smashed the elerate. The cars tyres screeched as it tried getting out of the tight alleyway it was stuck in. This goddamn ce is too tight, man, John said as he turned off the car. This thing aint going nowhere. So, that means were taking a cab? Justin asked and John sighed. We could just call the team toe take the car in the morning, Justin suggested. Nah, John said as he shook his head. Im taking this car home. John turned on the car, put it on reverse and floored the elerator heavily. After what seemed like forever, the car shot backwards will full speed. John screamed as he applied the brakes immediately but due to the speed at which the car pulled out with, the car just kept on moving. It jammed into the wall of a store, breaking it downpletely. Justin and John turned to look at the damage he had caused and they both winced upon seeing the broken wall. So cab? Justin said. Yup, John replied almost immediately. Cab it is. ********* John arrived at his houseter that night. He had escorted Justin to his apartment before going to his. He pulled out the key to his door from his pocket and stuck it in the key hole. He twisted the key and pushed the door but the door remained closed. What the fuck? John cussed as he tried pushing the door open again. He paused after a few tries and pulled out the key. He put it up to his face and stared at it as he groaned. It was twisted. Why does this always happen to me, man? he asked no one in particr. And why now? John stood by his door as he thought of what to do. Justin, he muttered as his eyes lit up. He brought out his phone, dialed Justins number and put it to his ear and after a few rings, Justin picked. Watsup, John, Justin said. Why you calling? We just saw each other off a couple of minutes ago. I know, I know, John replied. Just that Ive got a code grey again. Your sis was drunk driving and she hit a passerby again? Justin asked and John groaned. No, man, John replied. That ones a code orange. Oh, Justin muttered. Keys twisted again, huh? Yeah, man, John said as he sighed. I just wantedC Wait, why do we have a code color for your sisters drunk driving idents again? Justin asked, interrupting John and John groaned loudly. Because she always gets angry at my dad and her boyfriend for stupid unknown reasons and we know that whenever she gets mad, shed love to drink her anger out and when she drinks, she gets drunk and when she gets drunk and drives, she always manages to put herself in trouble one way or the other, he said sharply. So, the whole code color thing is just to represent all that I just said and you know it. Now, back to my current predicament. Yeah, yeah, Justin said as he chuckled. Your whole house key broken issue. Yes and thank you, John said. What I was saying waC Why does that always happen to you though, man? Justin asked, interrupting John again. There is no time that passes that your key doesnt get either twisted, broken or lost. Would you please stop mocking me and hear what I want to say? John pleaded, groaning at the same time. Alright, alright. Im sorry, Justin apologized. Im all ears now. Thank you again, John said and Justin chuckled. I was wondering if I coulde over to your ce to spend the night. Damn, Justin muttered. Im sorry, but Belle just arrived and we were nning on having the night to ourselves. Oh, John mumbled. Yeah, man. Im really sorry, Justin said. Dont think therell be enough room for all three of us. Its alright, Justin I understand. Why dont you go lodge at a hotel or something, Justin suggested. I think thatd be much more better than my ce. John groaned and said, as much as Id love to, I cant. And, why? Justin asked. Well, I really dont have much cash on me, John muttered. What did you say? Justin asked confused.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. I said. What did you say? Justin asked confused. I said that I dont have mC John, I heard what you fucking said, Justin screamed before John could finish speaking. What I meant is why? I mean, your dad is literally the richest man in this whole city. So rich enough, that hes contesting for mayor, dude. So, what you saying? John asked. He knew exactly where his friend was heading to. What Im saying is that you should act like the son of your father. You should be driving a fucking Ferrari, dude not a god forsaking police car, booming with sirens. Justin yelled and John had to shift the phone from his ear. You know why I can never do that, Justin, he said. You know what, bro? Just enjoy your night. I would talk to youter, John said as he hung up and put his phone on silent. He looked at his room door and sighed. I would be needing a new door after this. John took a few steps backwards and ran towards his door. He hit it with as much force as he could muster and the door split off its hinges, falling straight into his room. He picked up the broken door after and plopped it against the new entrance. He walked straight to his bed andid on it, not bothering to take off his shoes or even change as he reminisced all that had happened that night. Chapter 4: How it all happened John and Justin had just closed from work and they decided to go to their favorite coffee shop that was opposite their building. They arrived the little shop and walked in. Id need one cup of good strong coffee, Fred, John said as he approached the waiter behind the counter. And my friend here, he said, pointing to Justin, would love one bottle of water, room temperature. The waiter nodded as he walked inside to bring their orders Strong coffee? Justin asked as he tapped John on his chest. Are you being serious right now? Dont you want to have a good night sleep? Theres no rest for the wicked, my friend, John replied as he held his friends shoulders. Besides, I have a lot of personal work I need doing. By personal you mean researching and taking files on Derrick and his gang, Justin said as he raised his brow. John clicked his tongue as he winked and said, you know me well, good friend. And for that, Ill give you half of my coffee. No, thank you, Justin said jokingly as he scotted away from John. I dont want to lose my sanity yet. Johnughed and asked, yet? Well, you knowC He was suddenly interrupted by a radio transmission that came in from their walkie talkie. Theres been a shooting at the Marina hotel located at Johnson road. All closest personels are to head over there immediately, it said before clicking off. Marina hotel, John muttered. Its just down the street. Must be one of Derricks boys, Justin muttered and John turned to waiter. Make our order to go, he said. John and Justin drove straight to the hotel with three other cop cars following closely behind them. They arrived at the hotel after a few minutes. T-the girls said s-someone came in and sh-shot the man, the hotel manager stuttered as he approached John and Justin. John turned to the girls the hotel manager was referring to. They were wrapped with towels as they had nothing on them. What happened? Justin asked the girls. After noticing they were hesitating, he said, I want you to tell me everything that happened yourself and no worries. You guys arent in trouble. The girls hesitated before one spoke up. This man hired us to, you know, excite him and all, the girl said. We were doing our job when the door got kicked down by some girl. The man thought she was one of us, that is not until she brought out a gun and she paused before saying, well, not until she brought out a gun and fucking shot him. After he got shot, we ran out and reported to the hotel manager, one of the other girls added. So, the girl wasnt on some killing spree, John muttered. She was after just that man. Sounds like one of Derricks work, Justin added. Well, as we were running, I remember seeing a body at the front of the room door, the girl that had spoken up before said. I think she was one of the maids that worked here. Yeah, another girl confirmed. The one who asked too many questions. Strange, Justin muttered. Can you remember the mans name; the one you were working for? I think it was a Mr. Dawson? the girl said and her friends all nodded. Yeah, Mr. Dawson. You, John said as he pointed to the hotel manager, youe with us. The rest of you, stay here. Were going to need you guys for some questioningter. The girls nodded. All units remain outside and remain alert, Justin said into his walkie talkie. Alright, sir, take us to Mr. Dawsons room, John said to the hotel manager as they walked towards the elevator. John, Justin and the hotel manager walked out of the elevator after they had reached the tenth floor. I dont really know the exact room because Mr. Dawson chose the confidential room to keep his matters private but I do know its in this floor, the manager said. Doesnt matter though, John said. We might go there now and we wont find her there. Do you think shes on another floor? Justin asked John. I dont think so, the manager said. If she was to be on another floor then thatd mean she used the elevator and theres no way she can use the elevator without us being alerted downstairs. No vents? John asked, facing the manager. None, the manager replied. The walls are cemented and all airways are used through pipes so there are no vents. What about the security cameras? John asked again as he noticed a camera above him. All were turned off mysteriously minutes before the girls came running down, the manager said.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. Alright, John said. Lets search all rooms here then. But how do we open the doors without the keys, Justin asked the hotel manager. Theres a secret button on all doors that open the doors without the keys, the manager said. We use them when someone looses his key or gets stuck or something, he exined. Alright, then, John said. You take that room and you take the other, he said motioned to Justin and the hotel manager. John walked to the first room on the floor and looked at the door. He noticed a small red button on it and pressed it and the door opened. Open John muttered as he walked into the room. He looked around the dark room and after finding it empty, he walked out and closed the door before heading to the next room. John searched almost all the rooms on his line but found nothing. He was about searching another room when he heard voicesing from the next. He walked towards the door as he tried to listen to the voices but all of a sudden, the voices stopped. John immediately ran to the door and kicked it open. He looked inside and saw a little girlying on her bed, staring at him. Sorry, John apologized. Go back to sleep. He was about leaving when he noticed the window of the room was opened. He looked at the air conditioner on the room wall and saw that it was at its lowest temperature. He immediately ran to the window and looked down just to see a female running down the fire escape. Chapter 5: ” I am not into politics dad!” Justin, Justin. There she is, John yelled as he pointed towards the girl. The girl looked up at him and muttered a word as she began running down the stairs, faster than before. John, I heard you yell my name, Justin said as he ran into the room. He looked at the little girlying on the bed. What happened? And why is she staring at me? The girl is right there, John said. And shes fucking escaping. John was about jumping off the window and unto the fire escape when he remembered his fear of heights. He then turned and ran out of the room towards the elevator. He reached the elevator and clicked the button repeatedly but it refused to open open. Fuck, he cussed as he turned and ran towards the stairs. As he was about descending the stairs, he heard a ding and he ran back to the elevator to see it open. He ran inside and clicked on the ground floor button as the door closed.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. All units head north east of the building, John said into his walkie talkie. The suspect ising down the fire escape. The elevator door opened with a ding and John stepped out of it. He was about running when he heard gun shots being fired. Fuck, he muttered as he ran out of the building. He ran into his car and drove towards the north east side of the building. He ran out of his car as he arrived and headed towards the fire escape just to see the girl climb a bike and zoom off. Dammit, he muttered as he ran back to his car. He was about driving off when he saw his best friend running towards him. How did you get down so fast? he asked as Justin entered the vehicle. You forgot I was into parkour before I became a cadet, Justin said as he smiled. Whatever, man, John said. And would you please wipe that stupid grin off your face. Justin chuckled as John said, It aint my fault that Im scared of heights. John sped down the street as he chased the girl. Before long, three more vehicles joined them. This is the NYPD, one of them shouted through a megaphone. Park your vehicle now and put your hands behind your back. As if in response, the girl turned and shot at their vehicles. Her shots were clumsy as her bike swerved from left to right. She managed to hit one of the vehicles at its tyres after a few shots and the vehicle swerved and crashed into an electric pole. Fuck! John screamed as he increased the cars speed. I heard some shots as I came out of the elevator, he said to Justin. Yeah, I shot at Justin paused before screaming, LAMP POST! LAMP POST! John swerved the car as he missed themp post by a hairs breadth. Watch how youre driving, dude dont get us killed, Justin screamed. This aint no GTA. Its fucking dark, dude, John screamed back. I cant see anything. But I can, Justin muttered. You need to get yourself some fucking sses. The girl suddenly made a sharp turn towards an alleyway and John followed. The two cars in front of them could not make the turn as they crashed into two vehicles in front of them. I aint fucking loosing you, John muttered as he floored the elerator heavily. Justin noticed the walls between them were getting closer and the space tighter. Um, John? Justin muttered. No worries, dude, John screamed. We can make it. Unfortunately, that didnt happen as their car suddenly got stuck and the girl sped off as she cackled loudly. ******** END OF FLASH BACK Johnid on his bed and sighed as he finished reminiscing all that had happened. Why did he not search that girls room first? Why didnt he drive fast enough? All these questions and many more crossed his mind as he turned and tossed from one side of his bed to the other. His phone suddenly dinged as a message came into his phone. He turned the phone on and looked at it. The text was from his dad. When will you be free tomorrow? John said as he read the message. We need to see, son. John groaned as he turned off the phone and ced it on his bed. He heard another ding and he picked the phone again. It was his dad again. Reply my messages, he read. Its urgent. John dropped his phone back on the bed as he contemted texting his dad back when his phone rang. He picked his phone up and stared at the screen. It was his father. Hey, dad, he said as he picked the call. How you doing? Dont try to use sweet words on me, boy, his father shouted angrily. I wasntC You werent replying my goddamn messages, what were doing? his father asked. His voiceced with anger. You could feel imaginary smoke pooping out of his head . Why werent you replying them, John? Well I was busy and I didnt even see the texts, John lied. If I had seen them, there is no way I wouldnt have replied. I know you son, his father said. And I know when youre lying. John sighed and said, alright, dad. Im sorry. What do you need me for? I want us to meet tomorrow, his father replied. Tomorrow? John asked. Im going to be real busy tomorrow. Well, I need your help with something, his father said. Stop beating around the bush, dad, John said angrily. Youve already established that. Tell me what you need me for. Well, I need you to help me with my campaign and all the nnings. What do you mean? John asked. You know of my ns to run for the mayor, his father exined. Well, I need you to be there to help me with my campaign and nnings and all that stuff. Dont you have your PA and your whole political friends and associate gang to help you with those stuffs? John asked. Well, I do but it would be much more better to have you by my side right now, his father replied. Im sorry, dad, but you know Im not into politics and I dont want to have anything thatll involve me with it. Youve got to find someone else, John said as he hanged the call and turned off his phone. He then adjusted his pillow and closed his eyes as he drifted off into a dreamless sleep. Chapter 6: Loving parents Chloe drove the bike she had stolen into the garage. She got off the bike, groaning in pain as she ced her feet on the ground. She looked down at the bullet wound on herp and sighed. It was sure as heck going to hurt cleaning itter. She then grabbed the painting off the bike and headed towards the entry door with the bag hung around her neck. As she stumbled down the hallway, Chloe noticed the house was quiet. Way too quiet. In a family like hers, quiet meant something was up. She brought out her gun from her skirt and pointed it in front of her as she began limping slowly towards the sitting room. The painting she was holding and the bag hung around her made her hands shaky so she unhung the bag and dropped it and the painting on the floor. As she was about entering the dark sitting room, the lights suddenly came up and a loud, SURPRISE!! resonated through the room. Chloe shot her gun in the air in fright, screaming until the gun clicked empty. What in the name of William Franklyn-Miller do you guys think youre doing? Chloe screamed as she limped towards Dennis, the one who had been speaking with her through the earpiece. William Franklin-Miller? Diana, Dennis wife, muttered confused. You could have used anyones name. Hugh Jackman, Chris Evans. I dont know, Chloe muttered. I guess Ive been watching too many kid movies. She rubbed her temples and sighed. What did you guys do? she asked pointing to the cake on the table, all of this? Well, todays mission actually became your nine hundredth sessful mission ever since you were able to hold a gun. One hundred more and youre at your thousandth, Dennis said as he walked towards Chloe with tears forming in his eyes. Im so proud of you, dear. Come here, he said as he dragged Chloe and hugged her tightly. I am literally the most happiest man in this freaking messed up world right now. Yeah, yeah, Chloe said as she pat Dennis back. Now enough with the mushy mush. Youre taking my breath away. Me too, Chloe, Dennis muttered. The way you deliver all those missions assigned to you always leaves me breathless. Not that, Chloe croaked. Youre holding me tight. I cant freaking breath. Alright, alright. I think thats enough hugging for one day, Diana said as she dragged Chloe from Dennis tight grip. You can continue your act of loveter. Thank you, Mrs. Dennis, Chloe muttered as she coughed. She looked at the cake on the table and said, I appreciate your gesture of kindness and love and I also love the fact that you guys are proud of me but for real, man. Scaring me like that? she pointed her empty gun at the both of them, I could have freaking killed the both of you. You know how I am around loud noises. Youre an assassin who uses guns, Diana said with her brows raised. Oh yes, I use guns. But I use them with a freaking silencer, Chloe shouted. And whats with this cake? You know how much I freaking hate vani and caramel. Dennis looked at his wife with confusion written all over his face. I thought that was her favorite vor, Dennis muttered to his wife. I told you it wasnt but no way in heck would you listen to a woman, Diana said as she rolled her eyes. Chloe chuckled as she slowly limped out of the sitting room and towards the stairs. For shame, mama and papa, she whispered as she hobbled up the stairs. For shame. Chloe staggered to her room with arge smile on her face. She knew her parents were now having a heated argument downstairs about who was right and who was not and what her favorite vor of cake was. And yes, it was vani and caramel but she loved messing around with them. As much as she loved them with all her heart, she was still an assassin, trained to be hard core and show no emotion by the same parents who wanted her to show love towards them. Freaking weirdos, Chloe muttered as she sat on her bed. She put her left leg up, groaning in pain as she ced it on the bed. She stared at the bullet wound on herp as she thought of how she was going to remove it. Surprisingly, this was her first bullet wound since she had started assassinating. Yes, she had gotten injured before. Stabbed,cerated in many ces and even burnt but this was her first bullet wound. How do they do it in the movies? Chloe said as she unzipped her skirt pocket and brought out her phone. The phone screen was cracked but it still worked perfectly fine. She then went to her video yer and scrolled down the list. She saw a video with the title Rambo 3 and yed it. After watching the scene where Rambo cleaned his wounds five times, she dropped the phone, stood up and limped into her bathroom. Step one, pour alcohol on the wound, she said to herself as she sat on the toilet. No alcohol up here so no need for that. Now step two, use your hands to pull out the bullet. She took in a deep breath and put her fingers in the She took in a deep breath and put her fingers in the bullet wound as she screamed. Are you okay, Chloe? Dennis screamed from downstairs. I am most definitely fine, father, Chloe screamed back. Okay, then. If you say so, her father shouted. As Chloe was about putting her hand back in the wound her father shouted again, hey, Chloe! What in Jacobs name do you want? Chloe screamed in anger. I just wanted to know where you kept the documents. You know, the ones you stole. Its in the freaking bag by the hallway, Chloe screamed. Now, leave me the fuck alone. Whatever you say, maam, her father replied. Chloe took another deep breath as she put her finger in the now bloody wound. She yelped in pain as her fingers came in contact with the bullet. There is no way in hell Im doing this by myself, she muttered and she limped out of the bathroom and headed towards the stairs. Hey, dad, Chloe said as she stumbled into the sitting room. Yes, love, her dad replied. Can you help with, she pointed at the bloody wound, this? Her father stared at the wound and muttered, holy moly. Thats deep.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. Chapter 7: Her nine hundreth mission Chloe winced from pain radiating through her legs as sheid on the dining table. Dennis motioned for Diana to hold her legs as he walked into the kitchen to get some alcohol. Youve never gotten shot before, Chloe, Diana muttered as she held her legs together. How did this happen? Well, imagine you being shot in the leg, Chloe muttered dryly. Thats exactly how it happened. Diana looked at Chloe and rolled her eyes. I asked a simple question, she muttered. You dont have to be so freaking sarcastic about it. Well, thats just how I am, mother, Chloe said as she smiled. But what really happned, Chloe, her mother said with a serious look on her face this time. I want you to tell me. Chloe sighed as she screamed, arrrghh. She then looked at her mother as she began her story. I jumped off the freaking railing unto the Lamborghini and this stupid idiot shot me in the air just as I was aboutnding on the Lamborghini, Chloe said as she smiled. Just imagine everything happening in slow motion like in the James Bond movies. Wait, wait, wait, her mother said as she interrupted her. What happened to the Lamborghini after you fell on it? Well, uh, Chloe hesitated. She then looked at her mother and groaned. I freaking shattered its ss and destroyed its top. You did what?! Diana screamed as she shook Chloes leg mistakenly in anger. You freaking broke the ss and did what? Careful with the leg, mum. Careful, careful, Chloe groaned painfully as she held her leg and tried steadying it. Hey, hey, hey, Dennis said as he walked into the room with a bottle of vodka and some towels in his hands. What in Hades balls is happening here? Your little daughter here destroyed the gift we sent to her for the celebration of her nine hundredth mission, Diana shouted as she shook Chloes leg again. The cake? Dennis asked as he was confused. Not the freaking cake, you idiot, Diana said angrily. Im talking about the Lamborghini. The Lambo? Dennis muttered. He turned to Chloe whose face was squeezed from the pain radiating from her leg due to Dianas shaking. What happened to the Lamborghini? he asked. The mission happened, she muttered. I fell on it and destroyed it but I promise it was all a mistake. So what did you drive here with then? I drove in here in ashe paused as she looked from Diana to Dennis and then said, delivery bike. So, you freaking exchanged a Lamborghini, that cost me a lot of money, for a little scooter? I didnt exchange it, Dad, Chloe corrected. I actually stole it. Oh, I know for sure you didnt exchange it. I freaking know you stole it, her father shook his head Im not that dumb. Maybe, Chloe muttered. Wait, that was a gift? Oh, yes it was. And now, Miss, you should know that it would being out from your allowance, right? Diana said as she held Chloes leg tightly. My allowance? Chloe eyes widen immediately, Please dont do that, mum. I have to go to the mall tomorrow with my friends and Im going to need it, she said as she faked crying. We both know that youve got no friends, Chloe, Diana said. My dolls are my friends, Chloe argued. And we panned to go to the mall together. Oh, dont fucking y with me, Miss, Dennis said as he dropped the alcohol and the towels on the table. We both know you dont have any dolls and we know of your hates for them so dont go all freaking Harley Quinn on me. Im not faking any of this, papa, Chloe pouted cutely as tears began forming in the corner her eyes. Youve gotta believe me. Ill start believing you when you start learning how to not get injured on every mission you go to, her father said as he picked the vodka bottle up. Now, stay still. This is gonna sting a little bit too much. Wait, whaC Chloe could not finish her sentence as her father poured the vodka on her bullet wound. Chloe shrieked in pain as the wound hissed. The vodka is going to disinfect the wound and stop it from getting infected, Dennis exined to groaning Chloe after he had downed the bottle on her wound. He took a little sip of the remaining vodka and whooped as he set the empty bottle down on the table. Diana held Chloes leg steady as Chloe began trashing around from the pain. It was surprising to Chloe how a woman at the age of fifty four could hold down a grown updy with the grip of a twenty seven year old man. Your hand grip is hurting me, Chloe muttered amidst groans and Dianaughed.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Which is better, my grip or the alcohol? Diana asked. Oh, Ill take your grip anyday than this fucking, she looked down at her wound, this fucking hellish pain. Diana chuckled as she increased her grip on Chloes leg. Alright, Chloe, Dennis said as he put on handgloves. Im going to remove the bullet now. This is actually gonna hurt more than the vodka so just bite on this so you dont shatter your teeth, he said as he picked up a cloth and shoved it into her mouth. He then patted her cheeks and smiled. Good girl, Chloe. Now, please stay still so I dont cut any important veins, he said as he picked up a small scissors and the desk. Just as he was about cing it in the wound to remove the bullet, Diana asked, you sterilized that thing you holding? Dennis looked at the scissors for some seconds before chuckling nervously. Give me some minutes, he said as he ran back to the kitchen to sterilize it. Why does this man always forget these things? Diana said to herself as she sighed. Dennis soon entered the room with the now hot scissors. Lets start this over with, he said as he ced the hot scissors into the bullet wound. Chloes skin sizzled as the hot iron met with her flesh. She bit into the rag in her mouth and screamed in a muffled shout before passing out. Chapter 8: ‘Chleo the cat and Jake the rat’ Chloe woke up in her room. She opened her eyes slowly as they tried adjusting to the bright light seeping through her window from the sun. She looked around her as she tried recalling all that had happened. What freaking happened? Chloe muttered as she slowly sat up on her bed. Her leg ached surprisingly and she raised the duvet from her body. Herp was bandaged and it hurt badly. It was then everything came back to her. The mission, the gun shot, the cake, the vodka. Chloe groaned as she felt a light headache. She held her head as the room began to spin. Maybe I should just lie back down for a little bit, she said to herself as sheid her head back on her pillow. Suddenly, she heard her mom calling her name. Chloe, she called out. Are you awake? Chloe groaned in response. What does she want now? she thought. Im sick and shes still after me. What do you want us to do with this painting? her mother shouted from downstairs. Freckles, Chloe muttered. She had totally forgotten about the painting. Bring it up here for me, she shouted in response. Im gonna hang it on my wall. Soon after, Chloe heard the sound of footstepsing up the stairs and before long, her mother arrived at her door with the painting in one hand, a cup of coffee on the other and arge smile on her face. Care for some coffee, her mother said as she approached Chloe. She dropped the painting on the ground and ced the coffee on her bed. How are you feeling now? A little sore, Chloe croaked. But its nothing I can handle it. Her mother chuckled and said, yeah, I know. She held Chloes cheeks and smiled as she said, youve always proven that. Yeah, yeah, Chloe muttered. Now stop the whole motherly stuff. You know how I feel around all these. Her motherughed and said, I also know that deep beneath all these show of hard core and demonstrations of no emotions, theres a little girl down there. One who is full of love. Chloe looked at her mother with her brow raised. You do know who youre talking about, right? Chloe asked and Diana chuckled. Oh, I know, she said as she smiled. I am your mother and I trained you to be hard core but that doesnt mean there is no love down there. Yeah, whatever, Chloe muttered. Wheres dad? she asked as thest time she saw him was before she had passed out. Hes downstairs going through the documents you brought, Diana answered. Oh, yeah. Ive been meaning to ask. Whats in those documents anyways? Chloe asked and Dianas mood suddenly changed. Chloe didnt seem to notice it as she said, you guys told me before the mission that I shouldnt look inside it. Whats so important that it is kept a secret? Nothing, Chloe, Diana answered quickly. Chloe looked at her and noticed the now serious look she had on. There is no secret, alright? Just take your mind off of it. But I justC Just nothing, Chloe. I dont want you ever speaking of that again, Diana said sternly with all manner of seriousness. Chloe looked at her and raised her hands in defeat. Yeah, yeah, she muttered as she brought her raised hands down. I wont talk about it anymore. Just that I want to in on this secret stuff. I mean, you guys never keep anything away from me andC Diana looked at her sternly and Chloe moved her hands across her lips as if zipping it. My lips are sealed. Thats good, Diana muttered as herrge smile immediately returned. When youre strong enough to move, your father would like to speak to you downstairs, Diana said as she got off the bed. She then picked the coffee and ced it on Chloes body gently. You know, youre actually much more scary than I am, Chloe muttered as she picked the coffee and sipped it. Well, I am your mother, arent I? Diana said as she winked at her and began exiting the room. Yup, Chloe muttered as she took another sip of her coffee. Definitely much more scarier than me. She looked at her coffee and smiled. Mmmm. ck. ********* Chloe limped down the stairs into the living room. As she arrived, the smile on her face with which she came down with suddenly disappeared. Jake motherfucking Henshaw, she muttered. Hello, Chlo, Jake said as he grinned. Heard you got shotst night. How are you healing up? My name isnt freaking Chlo, Jake. I know youre toozy to add the e at the end but its Chloe, Chloe muttered as she resumed her limping down the stairs. And Im healing up just fine. As you can see, Im not dead. Surprisingly, yes, Jake said as he chuckled. Was expectingst nights mission to be yourst but you just made it your freaking nine hundredth. Jakes smile suddenly disappeared. You always do not meet my expectations. Oh, Im sorry that Im just too good at what I do, Chloe said as she grinned widely. You on the other hand, Chloe tskked, you are just you. Oh, you wanna go head on? Jake shouted as he walked up to Chloe, his eyes red with anger. You wanna try me? Oh, I can take you on with my eyes closed, Chloe replied as she limped towards him. No fighting in my house, Dennis shouted as he walked into the living room, just in time to break up the fight that was about to ensue between them. You two better behave yourselves. Why dont you tell that to Ms. Bulletthigh here? Jake shouted angrily. Ms. Bulletthigh? Chloe muttered. Well, thank you, Sir Fucksalot. Why, you, Jake said between clenched teeth as he rushed towards Chloe. Dennis rushed and held Jake just as he was about punching Chloe. Dont you touch my daughter, Jake, Dennis said. Youy your hand on her and I fucking kill you. Jake stared into Dennis red eyes before pulling his hand from his grip. You tell her to shut her big mouth then, he muttered as he walked to a couch and sat on it. Dennis sighed and turned to Chloe who shrugged. Come sit down, he muttered as he turned and walked to the kitchen. Ill be right back. He paused just as he was about entering the kitchen and said, and dont freaking spoil my furniture if you guys fight, and then he walked into the kitchen.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. Chloe stumbled to the couch opposite Jake and sat down on it, maintaining eye contact with him all the way. Chloe was about saying something to Jake when Dennis walked into the room with Diana following closely behind her. You guys didnt break anything? Diana said as she and her husband sat on the three sitter on the left side of Chloes couch. Thats one miracle today. Well, I threatened them, Dennis said as he adjusted himself on the seat. They break anything and I throw them out of the house. Like you would, Diana muttered and Dennis sighed. Lets just get down to business, shall we? Dennis said as he brought out a file from a bag that was sitted on the ground beside him and dropped it on the table opposite them. Jake, why dont you tell everyone what you told me today? Alright, Jake said as he grabbed the documents from the table. I did some research afterst night as you told me too and I found some shocking discoveries. Which are? Chloe asked impatiently. Im getting there, goddammit, Jake shouted. He then recollected himself and continued, I found out that we have a freaking mole in the gang. Chapter 9: Damien Evans A mole? Chloe asked confused. Like a betrayer or a mole mole? Of course its a freaking betrayer Im talking about, Jake said angrily. Why would I be talking about an animal mole? Its just a question, dude Chloe rolled her eyes. Besides, how sure are you of what youre saying? One hundred percent sure, Jake responded. Someone has been leaking information to an FBI agent, John Evans, Jake said as he dropped a picture on the table. Thats why he has been on our tail in all of our missions. He didnt know ofst nights own cause it was impromptus and because you guys made ns for the mission in secret without involving anyone from the gang. Chloe picked the picture from the table and stared at it. It was a picture of John and Justin. Hey, I know these guys, Chloe said as she showed Dennis the picture. This idiot, she pointed to Justin, was the one who fucking shot me in the leg. Well, that idiot and his friend here are high ranking FBI agents, Jake said as he grabbed the picture. John Evans is the son of multi-billionaire, Damien Evans and Justin Wayne is just his best friend. Nothing special about him. Wait, you said John is the son of Damien Evans? You meant the old man running for mayor, right? Chloe asked and Jake nodded. Yup. That old man, Jake replied. This John of a guy is now on our tail, Dennis said. He has almost all of our information from the mole and if we dont act now, he is going to expose all of us. So, thats why we are having this meeting here and not at thepound? Chloe asked and Diana nodded. Yes, she said. We are afraid the mole will take whatever we say here to the FBI agent and implicate our ns. So, what are you suggesting we do then? Chloe asked.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. We want you to do your thing, Jake said. My thing? Chloe muttered as she was confused. What do you mean by my thing? You know, your whole maid up and kill stuff, Jake said and Chloe looked at him with confusion written all over her face. Maid up and kill stuff? she said. Are you feeling okay today? You know what I fucking mean, Chloe. What hes trying to say is that we want you to infiltrate his ce, Diana intervened. You disguise yourself as a maid and go to apply for a work there. When you get employed, you stay around and keep silent for about a week. After a week has passed, you then do a little peeking and try to find out all that he knows about us. When youve found out everything, you kill him and destroy all evidence. And try not to get shot this time, Jake added giving her a mocking look and Chloe rolled her eyes. Whatever, Chloe scoffed. Why cant I just go kill him? Thats much more easier. Well, we dont know how much he knows and whom he has told all that he knows to, Jake exined. Thats why we want you to gather information from him before killing him off. Alright. Understood, Chloe muttered. When do I start then? Youll start after weve solved the one problem that is hindering us, Dennis said. And what problem is that? Chloe asked. Well, he lives alone in a little apartment so hes really not in need of any maid at the moment, Diana exined. So, why are you then telling me all these? Chloe asked. Well, we received information that his father has been persuading him to go live at a much morefortable ce, Dennis said as a smile grew on his face. We n to help his father in his persuasion. What evil scheme do you have in mind now, father? Dennis smile grew wider and he said, Oh, youll see. Youll see. ******* John walked into his office with drowsy eyes. He had not slept for long the other night as he had been receiving calls upon calls from his father after he had turned on his phone. Heter switched it off but it was already toote as it was already four in the morning and he was to go to work by six. He ced his bag on the office table and plopped down on his seat. He had a massive headache and his eyes were red. Heid his head on the chair head rest and was about dozing off when he heard a loud knock on his door causing him jump in fear. Whos that? he asked as heid his head back on the head rest. Its Latonya, the person outside replied. What does this specimen of the female specie want now? John thought as he tried going back to sleep. Latonya was his workmate who was always trying to hit on him. He despised her presence as she was not even appealing to him. She was always dressed in the same suit everyday that she never washed. Richard is calling you, Latonya shouted and Johns eyes parted open instantly. He immediately stood up from his chair and adjusted his clothes as he walked to the door of his office. He opened the door and ran out of his office towards his boss own. Why was Richard calling him? Did he do anything wrong? All these thoughts and many more crossed his mind as he ran towards the office. He suddenly heard someone yelled his name and he stopped. What is it, Latonya? he shouted as he turned sharply. Latonya smiled and walked towards him as she smacked the bubble gum she was chewing loudly. She held his tie and dragged him close to her. Im just calling you, John, she muttered. Theres no big deal in that. So no need to yell. You can be shouting my nameter though. John scrunches his nose as she spoke. Even with the bubble gum, her breath still smelled bad, if not worse, than it always did. He pulled his tie from her grip and began walking towards his boss office again. I really do not have times for your games, Latonya, he muttered as he increased his walking pace. Richard called me and I dont know why, so I have a lot to think about and try to arrange right now. Cmon, Latonya pouted as she ran and dragged him back. Dont you have at least one minute to spare for me? No, I do not, John said as he pushed her grip from his shirt. And please go meet someone else to torture. Torture, Latonya asked confused. Just as she was about holding him again, Justin walked by. Hey, Latonya, can youe help me with something by the printer? Justin asked as he dragged her away from John. Its really really important. John mouthed a thank you and Justin mouthed a wee in reply. John then turned and headed for Richards office. Sir, you sent for me? John said as he walked into his boss office. His boss, Richard Downey, sat behind his desk with paper scattered all over the top. He looked at John with drowsy eyes and muttered, yes, yes, yes. I sent for you. You have a visitor. Who? John asked and Richard nodded, motioning for him to turn around. John turned and gasped lightly upon seeing who the visitor was. Hello, son, Damien Evans said. Chapter 10: ” your apartment is on fire” Dad? John muttered. D-dad, what are you doing here? I came to see you, his father said as he smiled. Ive been calling your line but it has been switched off. And when your phone was on, you refused to pick my calls. So I decided toe see how you were faring and why you werent picking my calls. Well, dad, t-the reason is cause I just I wanted.. John stuttered as he tried looking for an excuse to give. I actuallyC Mr. Richard, Damien called out to Johns boss, interrupting him. Can you please give I and my son some minutes together to sort things out? I promise to bring him back for you. Sure, sure, Richard replied. Take your time. Damien smiled and was about walking out of Richards office with John when Richard called them back. Sorry, Mr. Damien, I just want to speak with John. Hell meet you outside. Damien smiled and nodded before walking out of the office. Yes, sir? John said as he turned to his boss. His hands shook as he was nervous and his palm was sweaty. What did you want to tell me, sir? Its about the chasest night, Richard said as he arranged the stacks of papers littered on his desk. You called the NYPD to help you. Y-yes, sir, John replied nervously. You didnt call us for backup. So, why the NYPD? Richard asked as maintained eye contact with John. Well, I did call for backup but the response team was more than twenty minutes away and the call I and Justin received was for immediate response. We saw some cops on our way and they joined us, John exined. Alright, then, Richard said as he finished stacking the papers on his desk properly. Ive heard you. Just know that I have something to discuss with you about itter. Okay, sir, John said as he shifted his feet nervously. Is that all, sir? Yes, yes, Richard said as he shooed him away with his hands. You can go. Thank you, sir, John said as he turned to go. He was about leaving when his boss called him back. And, John, Richard called and John turned. Please pity your old man. Whatever it is that he wants you to do, I suggest you do it. John smiles and nodded as he walked out of the office.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. Johnny, Damien called out as John walked up to him. Are you and your boss done? Yeah, were done, John said as he scratched his head, scattering his auburn hair. Good, Richard said with a grin stered on his cheeks. I never really liked him that much, your boss. Always so full of himself. Telling me he needs to speak with you just after I told him that I, your father, Damien Kelvin Evans, wanted to speak you. The guts of him. Damien sneered. John sighed and asked, why really are you here, dad? Damien frowned at his sons question. Why the question, son? he asked. Cant I speak with my son again? Dad, youve been calling and texting me throughout the night about your stupid campaign, John said angrily. You didnt give me a minute rest. I mean, dont you ever sleep? How can you call someone for five hours straight? Five? Damien asked Yes, dad. Five whole freaking hours, John said, almost shouting. He tucked his hands into his trouser as he breathed in and out multiple times, trying to calm himself down. I know the reason why youre here, i bet its because of your campaign. You want my help with it. SonC Damien tried speaking but John interrupted him. Dont son me, dad, John said calmly but dangerously I cant join your freaking campaign and you know why. Im never having anything to do with you. I didnte here for the campaign, John, Damien said after John had finished his ranting. I came to talk to you about something else. John calmed down a bit after hearing what his father said. And what is that something? he asked as he folded his arms and rested it on his chest. Well, Justin called me this morning and told me about your whole house situation, Damien exined. That was why I came here. John groaned loudly and said, why would Justin tell you that? Maybe its cause hes your best friend and he cares about your wellbeing better than you obviously do. Cmon, dad. Seriously? John muttered. He cares about my well being more than I do? Well, apparently he does. Damien sighed and brought out a key from his pocket. This is the key to the mansion I boughtst week. Cmon, dad, John muttered as he pinched the bridges of his nose. The house isnt far from your work ce and it is suitable for you, Damien emphasized. Dad, I dont need all these stupid show of love from you. Damien walked up to John and held him. You dont understand, John, he said as he stared into Johns eyes. Oh, really, dad, John replied as he pushed his fathers hands from his shoulders. Why dont you exin everything to me? Im running for mayor and that means Ill be having lots of opposition. Some people may want me dead. Some might even try to get to me through destruction of what I have. Some might through my son, Damien exined. This whole political stuff is a dirty game. People will do anything to be at the top, including hurting others. Youre included, right? John said and Damien shook is head. Im not like them, John. I will never hurt anybody. And I never want anyone to get hurt for what I do. The ce youre staying isnt secured. Anyone can do anything to you and get away with it. In case youve forgotten dad, Im an agent, John said as he brought out his badge and showed it to his father. I know very well how to protect myself. I know that, son. But that doesnt mean youre invincible. You can get hurt, Damien said. He opened Johns hand and ced the key in his palm. You might not move into the house but you holding this at least assures me in some way and gives me hope that you will listen to my advice. Damien smiled as he turned to leave. He paused and turned to his son. I love you, John. That is why I am doing all this, he said before walking away. John looked at the key in his hands and back at his father who was walking away. He sighed and put the key in his pocket, before breathing out. He was about going to his office when Justin rushed to him. John, he screamed as he approached John. What is it, Justin? John asked with confusion written all over his face. John, I just received a call from the fire service. John looked at Justin as he urged him to speak on. Your apartment is on fire. Chapter 11: “Dad!” John and Justin immediately got into his car and drove off straight to his house. As he drove, he got a call from his boss. He looked at the phone that wasid on hisp and groaned. Justin picked the phone and answered the call after he saw that John wasnt going to answer it. Hello, sir, Justin said as he picked the call. Where are you and John, Justin? their boss growled and Justin had to shift the phone from his ear. Where in hell are you guys? And where is John right now? we are actually kind of busy, sir, Justin replied. He looked at John whose focus was still on the road. And John is much more busy than I am right now. Give him the damn phone. I want to speak with him, their boss shouted angrily and Justin immediately handed the phone to John. Its for you, John, Justin said. John shifted his attention from the road to Justin. He hesitated but then grabbed the phone and put it in his ear with his one hand on the steering wheel. Sir, he muttered. You called. Why did Justin pick your call? Richard yelled And why did you two leave without informing me? Im sorry, sir, but it was very very urgent, John replied as he honked at an amazon delivery bike in front of him. After several honks, he swerved past him, screaming cusses at the driver as he drove. Justin looked at his best friend like he had lost his mind. Are you driving? Richard asked. And did you just cuss at me? Yes, sir. I am driving, John said as he took his hand off the steering wheel and wiped the sweat that was tickling his forehead. And no, sir. I wasnt cussing at you. I want you back here, right now, John, Richard said a bit calmer, but his voice wasced with anger. I dont want to hear any excuses. Johns car tyres squealed as he made a sharp turn down the street. Im really sorry, sir, but that cannot happen, John muttered. He turned to Justin and motioned for him to take the phone but Justin shook his head and turned to his window, ignoring Johns pleas. And why cant that happen, John? Richard asked with fury in his voice. He was most definitely angry now and John could picture steam sipping out of his ears. Steam. smoke. John groaned as the images of his house burning shed through his mind. Because my freaking house is on fire, sir, John shouted in response and Justin looked at him in shock. Did he just shout at their boss? Justin just received a call from the fire service, sir, and they said my ce was up in mes. Thats why I cant turn back now, John said, this time calmly. Well, you should have started with that, then, Richard muttered. Go take care of your home situation. Call me back when youve reached there and evaluated the situation. Yes, sir, John muttered as he hanged up the call and dropped his phone on hisp. The audacity you have, Justin said and John mumbled some words that he couldnt decipher. What are you sayC Justin paused. His eyes widened as he pointed and screamed, LAMP POST! LAMP POST! John turned the steering wheel and missed themp post by a hairs breadth. Yo, where did thate from? John muttered as he steadied the car. Justin looked at John, amusement written all over his face. What the hell, dude, he yelled. Firstst night and now today. Are you going blind? John mumbled some words again and Justin groaned. Freaking mumbling shit and driving like a bat. You need some sses, dude, he said as he pulled the seatbelt and locked himself in ce. John sped past cars and dodged motorcycles as he raced to his house. His eyes were focused on the road and he didnt let anything distract him. People shouted and cussed at him but he remained unmoved. All he thought about was his house in mes. How was he going to recover all the lost documents? And his clothes. He growled and hit the steering wheel in anger, frightening Justin. Are you okay, ? Justin asked. He was concerned about his friend and feared that the situation was now resulting to a mental problem. I know you angry but you dont have to hit that steering wheel so hard. It doesnt stop your house from burning down You dont understand, Justin, John muttered. All my stuffs are in there. My clothes and everything. I mean, this stuff, he dragged his suit, might be the only thing I have right now. Cmon, man, Justin said. Some fires can be merciful. Some of your stuffs might be saved. Dude, not only that, but now, this whole thing is gonna prove all that my dad said to be right. John ran his hand through his hair as different thoughts ran through his head. Dont think like that man, your Justin paused as John parked his car. He stared at the now charred remains of Justins home. Whoa, I think you were right. That suit is your only property left. John let out a light croak as he stared at the smoke rising from his house. The fire fighter had put off the fire and the once blue painted, beautiful looking bungalow was now ck. The roof had burnt downpletely and some of the walls had fallen off. John stepped out of the car and walked up to a firefighter. He tapped the man on the shoulder and he turned around. John stared at the pack of cheetos in his hands and frowned. Are you eating cheetos while someones home is on fire? John said angrily.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. Well, technically, its not on fire, the man replied. Well, technically, I dont care, John shouted as Justin walked up to him. Hey calm down, tiger, Justin said as he dragged John away from the man. Sorry, sir. My friend here has had a rough day. The man nodded as he put a cheeto in his mouth and bit hard on it. Sure, no problem, he said as he waved at them before turning back to Johns building. What are you doing, man, Justin asked angrily after he had dragged his friend to a corner. Have you freaking lost it? Why did you talk to that fireman that way? Im sorry. I just John paused as he ced his hands in his pocket. He pulled out the key his dad gave him and stared at it angrily. Dad. He growled. Chapter 12: The man in black You just called your dad? Justin asked. He looked at his best friend and said, you, my friend, are loosing it. John looked at Justin with anger in his eyes. Dont you get it? John yelled as he shook Justin. My dad was behind all of this. Dont take out your anger on me, man, Justin yelled back as he shoved John away. Im not your dad so I dont see any reason why you would want to kill me with all that shaking. Im sorry, man, John muttered a bit calmer as he smoothened Justins roughened suit. This whole thing is now making me crazy. Justin looked at his friend with pity in his eyes and said, I get you. I understand youre angry. Just dont release all your frustrations on me, alright? Yeah, dude, John muttered. Justin stared at the key in Johns hand and asked, whats up with the key? John raised the key to Justins face and shook it.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. This key was given to me by my dad today. So? Justin asked as he shrugged. Whats it for? He came to me this morning and told me that you called and told him aboutst night, John replied and Justin scratched his head. Yeah, about that. I actually nned to tell you this morning about it butC Im not angry or anything, John said, interrupting Justins excuse. Okay? Justin muttered as he shoved his hands into his pockets. So what happened? What happened was, he came to tell me to move out of my house, John exined and Justin shrugged. Dont you get it? Get what? Justin asked. He was very much confused now. My dad was the one who burnt down my house, Justin, John shouted unable to control his anger attracting the attention of some of the firefighters. Right now he was losing itpletely. He looked around him and adjusted himself as he saw that all eyes and attentions were now on him. My dad was behind the fire, he whispered this time. Justin looked at John for some seconds beforeughing loudly. It was now Johns turn to be confused. Whats funny? he asked with confusion written all over his face. Justinsughter subsided after some minutes and he wiped the tears that were now forming in his eyes as he held his aching ribs. He was still chuckling find it hard to control hisughter. John was indeed funny. Well, you are, Justin said as he chuckled lightly. Dont be stupid, John. Your dad can never burn down your house. He is businessman and he will not venture into anything that wont profit him and I assure you, John, your house most definitely is one of them. Is that an insult? John asked. Not an insult, good friend, but the mere truth, Justin replied. By the way, why will your dad ever want your house on fire? Now, thats the question youre supposed to ask, John scoffed My father met me today and gave me this key cause he wanted me out of my house and into some new mansion he boughtst week. I rejected the offer but he insisted. He just handed me the key and then left. So, youre saying your dad set your ce aze cause he wants you to move into the new ce, Justin asked with a raised brow and John nodded. Cmon, John You cant be serious. I am, Justin, and I believe this whole thing is part of his whole political ambitions stuff, John muttered. Could you guys keep it down? Im trying to freaking sleep, someone shouted, obviously a neighbor. John and Justin turned and saw Johns annoying neighbor, Henry, standing on his porch with nothing on but some short boxers. First you fill my ce with smoke from your annoying house and now youre here ranting god knows what and disturbing my sleep. Justin turned to his friend who was now fuming and mumbling nonsense, his eyes red with anger. Calm down, buddy, Justin said. Lets go talk somewhere more private, he said as he grabbed John and pulled him away from the house and towards his car. Yeah, you better run, Henry shouted before entering back into his house and mming his door. Justin pushed John into the car and closed the door. Whats wrong with you, dude? he asked angrily. Youve been acting so aggressively since today. John simply rubbed his temples and closed his eyes. He felt a headache brewing in his head. Look, man, this whole thing is just stressing me out, he muttered. I didnt sleep wellst night, I got flirted on by Latonya, my dad burnt my house. If it were you how would you act. Youre going through some weird stuff and I get it. But putting it out on others isnt right. And you cant me your father blindly for your house. You might have forgotten to turn off the stove or maybe there was a spark. Anything but your dad couldnt have caused this. Yeah, youre right. John rubbed his face repeatedly and sighed. I just need some sleep. ******* There was a knock on Johns window. John turned and saw a fireman standing outside of his car with one of his neighbors, Fiona. The fireman motioned for him toe out of the car and John nodded. What is it, sir? John said as he and Justin stepped out of the car. Name is Pharell, the fireman said as he shook Johns hand. Here with me isC Fiona, John said,pleting Pharells sentence. Yeah, I know her. Good morning, John, Fiona greeted and John nodded in reply. Well, Fiona here says she saw the person who started the fire, Pharell exined. You saw him? John asked and Fiona nodded. His curiosity was really getting the better of him and he was really desperate to catch the person who did this to him. As you know, John, Im a light sleeper, Fiona said and John nodded in agreement. Fiona was a light sleeper and was awaken by even the slightest noise. That was why he had stopped using his rm clock. She alwaysined of its loudness so he resorted to his phone own instead. Well, I was woken up early by the loud noise. I thought it was your rm clock again but you were already out of the house. I walked up to my window to investigate and saw a man in ck overalls break your door open and walk inside. I didnt think too much of it so I went back to sleep only to be awokenter again, this time by the smell of smoke. Fiona exined while John listened with keen interest. She was the one who called us about the fire, Pharell exined. Just as John was about speaking, he heard someone call his name. He turned around to see who it was and his face squeezed in anger. John, his father said as he walked up to him. What happened? Chapter 13: An unknown man with a sniper You, John muttered with anger in his eyes. You caused all of this and youe back here? Damien looked at his son in confusion. What was he talking about? I dont understand, John, Damien said as he walked up to his son. What do you mean by I caused all of this? You know what I mean, dad, John muttered angrily. You burnt down my house. Damien looked at his son like he had lost his mind. I burnt down your house? Damien asked, confused. Fiona and Pharell looked at John and back at Damien while Justin scratched his head as he looked at the faces of the now much onlookers in embarrassment. Wait, wait, wait, now Pharell said, trying to clear up the tension in the air. John, are you using your father of starting your house fire? Thats what he has been telling me since we got here and I really do not know why, Justin pitched in. John gave him a dirty look and Justin shrugged. John ignored him and turned to his father. This, John said as he lifted the house key his father had given him. You gave me this key today. Yes, and for good reasons too, Damien replied. You gave me this key cause you wanted me to move out of my house and into the one you bought for me. Correct, Damien said. When you gave me this key, I refused to take it but you ced it in my palm and just left. Secondster, Justin receives a call that my house is on fire, John said. Damiens eyes widened as he realized what John was insinuating.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Are you trying to say that I started that fire cause I wanted you to move into the mansion that I bought? Damien asked. You cant be serious right now. But I am, John yelled and Justin shook his head. How else can you exin my house being on fire seconds after you came to meet me. And not only that but you gave me this key cause you knew that I wouldnt have anywhere else to go. Do you know the level of usation this is, Mr. Damien? Pharell asked as he turned to Damien. I understand, sir. But I didnt not start the fire. Why would I start a fire on my sons home? Damien said. I dont think your father has any hand in this, John, Fiona said. All eyes were now on her as they all listened to what she had to say. Your father has no reason for starting this fire. And how do you know that? John asked as he folded his arms. I I actually dont but Im very sure of it,Fiona said. When I came to the window to investigate the noise, I remember seeing a blue ford parked beside the house. When I came back to the window when the fire started, the car was no longer there. So, Im very sure it belonged to the arsonist that started the fire, Fiona exined. If we get the cars number, we get the arsonist, Pharell said nodding his head. Exactly, Fiona said. Damien looked at his son with pain in his eyes before turning back down the road. Tell me when youve found the culprit, he said as he walked away. I would like to have a word with him as to why he burnt my sons house down. John stared at his fathers retreating figure. He knew him using his father like that was wrong. It would destroy his chances of bing a mayor and it also wasnt a good thing to show to outsiders. He sighed as he turned back to Pharell who was now discussing with Fiona. He felt his best friend staring at him hardly but he ignored him. Whats going on now? he asked as he walked up to Pharell and Fiona. Well, Fiona here was just telling me that shes got security cameras surrounding her house. Ill call the police and exin everything to them. Theyll look through this morning recording and check out the cars te number. Okay, John muttered. Pharell nodded as he and Fiona walked away. He then turned to Justin who was now giving him the dirty look. Hey, manC Dont hey man me, John, Justin retorted. You just disgraced your own father in front of other people. Passersby saw the usations you made. Dont you know itd affect his political career now? Itd also affect his run for mayor. John kept quiet. All his friend said were true. Justin had tried calming him down but he was just too hot headed. What was he thinking that made him act that way? Im so sorry. IC John paused. He looked behind Justin and saw someone dressed in all ck watching them closely. He and the person made eye contact and the person immediately turned and began walking towards a alley. John suspected something foul and immediately followed the guy. Justin called him back repeatedly but John didnt listen. He kept on following the man until they reached the alley. Suddenly, the person began running. John knew immediately that something was up and he ran after him. The person was fast but John was faster. He caught up to him in a manner of seconds and jumped on them. He immediately pulled the hoodie he was wearing and saw that it was a man. The mans eyes was filled with fear and his lips trembled. Why were you running?! John shouted attracting passerbys. Why did you do it? he shouted on top of his voice. Answer me, goddammit! The man didnt respond but just kept on trembling. John was about asking him again when he heard a loud gunshot. Blood sshed on his face and the man stopped shaking. John stared at the now dead man who now had a bullet-shaped hole in his head. He looked up above him and saw someone on the roof with a sniper. The man smiled and turned, disappearing from his sight. Chapter 14: About to get caught 1 You burnt down their house? Chloe yelled and Derrick chuckled. Yo, thats wicked. I didnt take you for one who was sympathetic, Diana muttered after seeing Chloes outburst. Chloe sipped the coffee in her hand as she rubbed her aching thigh. She chuckled and said, dont mistake myment, mum. Im not being sympathetic. Im just merely surprised cause thats too much, even for you guys. Youve forgotten that I was the one who trained you then, Derrick said as he smiled. Chloe made a disgusted look as he smiled and his facial expression changed. Whats it? Why that look? Youve got some youve got something stuck in your teeth, Chloe said and Derrick immediately covered his mouth as he left the living room immediately. Chloe chuckled as she watched his retreating figure. Diana gave her a dirty look and she shrugged. There was nothing stuck in his teeth, Diana said and Chloe nodded. She rolled her eyes and left the living room to meet Derrick. Chloe was about sipping her coffee when Jake ran into the room with an angry look on his face. Chloe almost choked on the coffee when he barged in. Whats with the look? she asked. She paused when she saw his sniper hung around his shoulders. And what are you doing with that? Jake let out a loud groan in response as he picked the sniper and threw it on the couch. Chloe flinched at his outburst and held her now cold coffee tightly. Yo, why the aggressiveness, man? Chloe yelled. Calm down, bro. Derrick and Diana walked into the living with confused looks on their faces. Whats with themotion? Derrick asked. Jake didnt answer but just stood shouting profanities as he ran his fingers through his hair. Answer me, Jake! Derrick snapped, this time yelling. Freddy just messed up,he muttered after he had maintained hisposure. Freddy just messed up big time. Whos Freddy? Chloe asked confused. Freddy was the one we assigned to do the burning of Johns house, Derrick exined. He turned to Jake and muttered, the one Jake assigned. Oh, Chloe mumbled. How did he mess up though? she asked. He he was caught, Jake said and Derrick eyes went red. I handled it so do not worry, Jake said after seeing the look on Derricks face. How did you handle it? Diana asked and Jake pointed to his sniper. Killed him, he said. He dropped to the couch and let out a big sigh. But there is a problem. Derricks face squeezed again. He hated problems. What problem is that? Chloe asked after some seconds of silence. Well, Jake began. He drove there with a car he rented. And the problem now is that the car he rented was captured in a footage from the security cameras of Johns neighbor. Did he rent his car with his real name? Derrick asked. Jake hesitated to respond but after seeing the mad look on Derricks face, he spoke up. Im not sure but Freddy that I know is is actually dumb enough to, Jake muttered and Diana let out a loud groan. Chloe watched as Derrick gave Jake a look that could make someone shiver in fear. What does that mean though? Chloe asked. She couldnt understand how that could affect them. If the police finds out his name and identity, theyll track his home. And if they get his ce, theres no way they wont get us, Diana muttered and Chloes eyes widened. This is so freaking messed up, Chloe muttered as she took another sip of her coffee. Chloe then asked what was lingering on everyones mind. What are we going to do now? We leave, Derrick muttered as he turned and walked up the stairs with Diana following closely behind him. Chloe took another sip of her coffee and turned to Jake who was sitting with his head bowed down. Bro, youre fucked, she said as she chuckled. Jake looked at her with anger in his eyes. Chloe sipped her coffee and smirked, angering Jake the more. You really think this is some kind of y? he screamed. Actually, I do not, Chloe said as she stood from the chair she was sitting on and limped slowly towards Jake. She twirled the coffee in the air as she spoke. You, on the other hand, are the one thinking that this is some kind of y. She smiled as she watched Jakes facial expression go from angry to confused. What do you mean? he muttered. How did I take this as a y? Well, you took this whole thing as a y, as a joke when you hired an unprofessional to do the job of a professional. Jakes face went from confusion back to anger and Chloe smiled knowing she had gotten to him. You always im to be better than me and that you were not always given chance to show your potentials. They gave you one and you mess it up. Shut up, Chloe, Jake muttered between clenched teeth. I dont care that youre healing. If you anger me anymore, Ill tear you wide open. Oh, really, Chloe said as she chuckled. She dropped the coffee on the center table and cracked her neck. She then looked at him and smirked. Come at me. Jake rushed at her just as Derrick entered into the room. He was about throwing a punch when he received a gunshot from Derrick to his thigh. He fell to the ground as he held his leg, groaning in pain. Awwn, Chloe muttered. We have matching scars. Jake looked up at her and then to Derrick who just stood, staring at him with a smoky gun in his hands.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. Get up and pack your things, he muttered as he walked back up the stairs. And you, he said as he paused and looked at Chloe, stop ying around. Chloe smiled in response and followed her father up the stairs while Jake stared on with pain in his eyes. Jake messed up and what I did to him wasnt for you but as a punishment for what he did, Derrick said to Chloe as they walked upstairs. Dont take it asC Suddenly, the sound of police sirens blew up in the air and Derrick cussed out loud. COME OUT OF THE HOUSE WITH YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR. Chapter 15: About to get caught 2 Dammit, Derrick muttered as he ran quickly upstairs. He bumped into Diana who was rushing out with some luggage bags behind her. Everythings ready, Diana said and Derrick nodded. Chloe stood as she watched her parents talk while the sirens blew outside. Do you have the file? Derrick asked and Diana nodded in response. He ran downstairs and motioned for Diana and Chloe to follow him. Jake sat on the couch grabbing his leg and groaning in pain as beads of sweat trickled down his face. Get up and stop whining like a baby, Jake, Diana said as they walked past Jake towards the hallway. Weve got to get going. Jake groaned as he stood up and began limping towards them. Wait, wait, wait, Chloe said and they stopped in their tracks. What is it, Chloe? Derrick asked. We dont have much time. My things are upstairs, Chloe muttered and Derrick sighed. Well get new ones. Nowe lets go, Diana said as she, Jake and Derrick continued their walk down the hallway. But my painting, Chloe whined. I just got it. Leave the freaking painting, Chloe, ande lets go, Derrick yelled. Cant you hear the sirens blowing outside? Weve got to get going before theye in. Chloe was about whining again when Diana sent her a re that could kill. Okay, okay. Iming, Chloe muttered as she limped towards them. You guys are getting me new clothes and an awesome painting. They walked down the hallway and arrived at the entry door that led to the garage. Derrick creamed the door a little and peeped in. He could see shes of red and blue seep into the garage through the garage door. Theyre out there too, Derrick muttered. What do we do now? Chloe asked and Derrick cussed. I guess we have toC Derrick couldntplete his words as he heard a loud boom. They just broke the door down. Theyre in the house, Derrick muttered as he brought out his 9x19mm Glock 17 and cocked it. He turned to the others and asked, do you guys have your guns with you? Yeah, Diana said as she cocked her gun. Derrick looked at Jake who shrugged. The sniper he hade to the house with was in the living room. He turned to Chloe who brought out her beretta 92 and pulled the trigger. It clicked showing it was empty and Derrick sighed. You guys made me waste my bullets, remember? Chloe rolled her eyes. MOVE, MOVE, MOVE!!! Derrick turned and saw mening their way. They were dressed in bullet proof vests and had AR15s pointed in front of them. One of the men sighted them and alerted the rest. Derrick shot at all of them before they could pull their trigger and they dropped dead to the floor. He pulled a magazine from his pocket and handed it to Chloe for her beretta. Dont waste it, he said before running out into the garage. Chloe removed the empty magazine and shoved the new one in. She cocked the gun and smiled. You and Jake follow dad, Chloe said as she grinned. Ill handle these guys. Diana nodded as she and Jake ran into the garage. Chloe turned around and saw three other men run down the hallway and towards her. The men stopped as they saw their fallen mates. One bent and checked the pulse of the one closest to him while the others kept their guns trained on Chloe. Finding none, he stood back up and pointed his gun at her. Drop your weapon, kneel down and put your hands behind you, he shouted. Chloe didnt respond but just stood smiling. The man was about repeating the same words when Chloe began chuckling. Bobby, Sam and Junior, she said, pointing at the three men. You know, Im not one to follow orders. The men looked at each other confused.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Drop your weapon, kneel down and put your handsC Behind you, Chloe muttered,pleting the mans words. I know, I know. How about this? I kill you three and then go meet my family. The men looked at each other more confused. Chloe knew what was running through their mind. This girl was most definitely a crazy one. Chloe sighed and pointed her gun at them. She shot one in the head before he could react. Bobby, she muttered before rolling into the garage as the other two seeing theirrade now dead, shot at her repeatedly. Some bullets ricochetted off the metal door of the entry way while some took out chunks of the concrete wall. Chloe turned and saw her parents and Jake crawl into the 2020 Mazda3 parked in the garage. She chuckled as she crouched and counted the shots the men fired. They stopped firing and Chloe smiled. She jumped out and shot one of them in the leg before he could reload his gun. Sam, she muttered as he dropped his gun and held his shot foot, groaning in pain. The other reloaded his gun fast but before he could point it at Chloe, she was already in front of him. She hit the gun to the side as he fired and sent her elbow to his jaw. He stumbled backwards and Chloe gave him a roundhouse kick before he could regain his posture. Chloe turned and saw the one she had shot on the leg crawling towards his gun. She groaned and walked up to him calmly. Sammy wants to y? she cooed before stepping on his hands, shattering his carpals. The guy screamed in pain as he rolled to his side, clutching his hand. Chloe pointed her gun at him and shot him in his head, quieting him once and for all. She heard a groan behind her and she turned. The other guy was waking up. She walked up to him and pointed her gun at him. Seeing hering towards him with her gun pointed at him, he struggled to remove his pistol from his gun holster. Before he could pull it out, Chloe shot him in the chest two times. Junior, she muttered as he stopped moving. She heard more peoplee down the hallway and she rushed into the garage. The garage door cranked as it opened slowly and Derrick turned on the car. Chloe turned and saw the bike she had stolen and she rushed and got on it. The garage was now halfway open and Chloe could see the feet of the police men outside. Before the garage door openedpletely, Chloe and Derrick zoomed off into the street. Derrick knocked down some of the police men and bashed the cars on his way. Chapter 16: The search John collected the wipe from Justin and cleaned his face with it. It was the third wipe he was using now but the blood was still on his face. It had dried and it was now making his face sticky. It wasnt his first time getting stained with blood, but the suddenness of it was what shocked him. After the arsonist was shot, the shooter left immediately before John could call for back up. When the back up arrived, he was nowhere to be seen. Did you get his face? Justin asked and John shook his head. He was at the top of the building, John answered as he collected another wipe from Justin. The sun shone on my eyes so I was not able to get his face. Justin stared at the arsonists body which was now covered with a white tarp. Theyve gone through the footage from the security camera, Justin said with a sigh. The car was rented. How are we going to find the dudes identity then? John asked as he threw the blood stained wipe to the floor.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. The idiot used his real name and address to rent the car so they were able to pinpoint his home, Justin said and John smiled. His name was Harold Nate and he lived not too far from your ce. They were also able to get some footages from cameras around his ce. They found out he had met with a certain guy earlier this morning. Theyre still trying to find out the guys location. At least were getting somewhere, John muttered. He watched as the paramedics removed the body and put in an ambnce. The Chief ambnce officer, Collins McCoy, came down from the ambnce and walked up to John. The bullet ran deep into his head, he breathed. Whoever did this is a pure professional. He knew what he was doing. Yeah, Justin agreed. And we might have an idea who. Thats good, Collins muttered. There is something I wanted to ask though. Why werent you shot? John paused. That had been going through his mind. Why wasnt he shot? That has been going through my mind and to say the truth, I really dont know why, John answered. I cant say the shooter was on our side by killing the arsonist because he might have been trying to cover up his deeds. You know, so that the guy wont confess and expose them. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. To say the truth, Im really shock right now. Dont worry, John, Collins said as he tapped Johns shoulder. Youve been through worse so youll for sure find a way to maneuver this one. John nodded and watched as Collins walked up to the ambnce. Collins was right. John had been through a lot. He had been shot at by many people who had the intention to kill him. But one who had the chance but didnt use it, now that was scary. You need a bath, Justin muttered as he handed John thest wipe. Youve used all the wipe but you still look pretty messed up. John chuckled and was about replying him when he heard someone called his name. He turned and saw his boss walking towards them. I heard what happened, John, Richard said as he walked up to John and Justin. Are you okay? Yeah, Im Im fine, John answered. Just need some rest and a really hot bath. That would have to wait though, Richard said as he brought out a paper from his pocket. He handed the paper to John and said, weve found their address. ******** John was nervous throughout the ride to the house. He had been waiting for so long to get Derrick but now he was heading towards his very home. He brought out his glock and removed the magazine. Seeing that it was full, he shoved it back inside and cocked the gun. Youre slow, John muttered as he tucked the gun inside his belt. Justin, who was at the steering wheel, chuckled. What do you mean Im slow? he asked. Im literally going at a hundred right now. Youre still slow, John muttered as he cleaned his gun. You should have just let me drive. Justin looked at him and smiled. Like I would. Cant forget how you acted throughout today. I aint risking my life like that, he said with a light chuckle. Your choice, John muttered. He looked at the cars that drove in front of him. Richard was in one of them, directing them to the house. He had told the NYPD not to get involved as it was now an FBI case so all that followed them were FBI officers with John, Justin and Richard ranking the highest. They arrived at the house ten minutester. John stepped out of the car and stared at the duplex building. It looked familiar. Isnt this the building we pass whenever we go out with the boys? Justin asked as he came down from the car. That was true. It was the building. Howe he had never suspected anything whenever he passed there? He walked up to Richard who stood with a megaphone in his hands. What are we to do now? he asked as he approached him. Weve gotta check the perimeter first before we move into the house, he said as he motioned for some of the men to check around the house. COME OUT WITH YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR! Richard said through the megaphone. There was no response so he motioned for some of them to go stand by the door. Coast is clear, sir, one of the men he had sent to check around the house said through his walkie talkie. Move in, Richard said and the officers broke down the doors and moved in. John, he said as he turned to face John. You and Justin, take some men with you and go around the house. There are some men there already. I want you to block the garage and not let anyonee out. John nodded as he and Justin with some men went around the house. Chapter 17: The hot chase Has anyone stepped out? John asked as he and Justin approached the men standing by the garage door. No, one of them replied. John nodded in response as he brought out his gun and cocked it.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. You guys remain at alert. Whatever happens, dont letC John was suddenly interrupted by the sound of gunshot from the house. He acted on reflex and pointed his gun at the garage door. Three of our men are down, Richard said through them link. John groaned in anger upon hearing this. Permission to move in, sir, he muttered under his breath. No, Richard yelled. No one at the garage area should make any goddamn move. John cussed under his breath. His hand shook with anger. He wanted so much to storm into the house and bring everyone there to their knees. John heard multiple gunshots again from the house and loud shouting. John shook with anger as he restrained himself from running into the house. The garage door suddenly began to open slowly and the revving of engines could be heard from behind the door. They were going to escape. Not on my watch, John muttered under his breath. BE AT ALERT! he shouted and everyone cocked their guns and pointed it towards the garage door. The door wasnt halfway open when the car behind it began zooming towards them. John and the men began firing at the car but all the bullets ricochetted off the cars body. The car began to get closer and John had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit by it. Some of his men were unlucky though as they got rammed by the vehicle. John stood up from the ground when a girl on a bike zoomed past him. Her face was sshed with blood and she had arge grin on her face. The girl gave him a short nce before zooming off. Get in the car, shouted Justin who had already stood up and was by the car. John immediately got up and rushed into the car. Justin turned on the car, put it in gear and smashed the elerator propelling the car forward at great speed. ****** Chloe swerved left and right as she tried getting the officers behind her from her tail but they seemed persistent. She then decided to use another alternative. She brought out her beretta, pointed it at the car and shot repeatedly at them. They swerved as they tried avoiding the bullets. One hit their windscreen, giving it a mean crack. Chloe knew that one more shot to the ss would shatter itpletely, therefore giving her a better chance at killing them. She steadied her hand, pointed the gun at the broken windscreen and pulled the trigger but all she heard was a click, dignifying that the gun was now empty. Why now? Chloe shouted as she threw the gun away. She turned back and saw someone put half of his body outside of the car window pointing a gun at her. It was the guy she had see while driving out of the garage. The stupid, handsome looking, son of a billionaire, FBI agent guy. She cussed under her breath as he began shooting at her. She swerved from left to right, trying to dodge the bullets. Some bounced off the bike and she waa surprised the bike waa still in shape. She looked in front of her and saw two cars chasing her parents and she sighed. I guess its every man for himself now, she muttered. She turned to look behind her and saw that the guy was no longer shooting at her. It was then she realized why. They were in the streets and the bullets could hit anybody. Amateurs, she muttered. She was approaching an X-junction and a trailer wasing from the left towards her. She smiled as a n immediately formed in her head. She zoomed towards the trailer and her chasers followed her. They suddenly realized what she was about doing so they applied their brakes. Chloe on the other hand, kept on zooming towards the trailer. ***** Keep you hands steady, John yelled at Justin as he brought the upper half of his body out of the car window. Her bullets had just finished and he wasnt going to waste this opportunity. What in heavens name are you trying to do? Justin yelled back and John responded by firing at the girl on the bike. He couldnt get a clear aim due to Justins swerving so some of his bullets just bounced off the bike. John brought himself back in when his gun clicked empty. He brought another magazine from his pocket and was about putting it into his gun when Justin grabbed the magazine, his other hand still on the steering wheel. Whats your problem, man? John yelled angrily. Dont you freaking know youre in the streets? Justin yelled back with the same enthusiasm. What if your bullets hit someone. John roughened his hair with his hand as he fritter his teeth in anger. We just have to make sure she doesnt get away, he said with a hint of guilt in his voice. That doesnt mean you go off shooting at her while in a popted area, Justin yelled in anger. JustC John paused. He pointed to the girl and said, shes turning left. Then we do same, Justin said as he turned his steering wheel. He suddenly noticed what she was about to do and he smashed the brakes. The car immediately skidded to a stop but she kept on going. Shes going to collide with that trailer, John shouted pointing towards Chloe but she proved them wrong. The girl bent the bike to the side and slid under the trailer but to John and Justin surprise, only the bike came out of the other side. The girl was nowhere to be found. Where did she go? John muttered as he stepped down from the car. He looked at the trailer as it passes and saw something move under. It was then he realized what she did. Shes under the freaking trailer, he screamed as he ran back into the car. Chapter 18: The successful escape Just as the bike went under the trailer, Chloe jumped out and held the under. She imagined their surprised faces when they see just the bikee out of the other side. Holding a moving car was most definitely not easy for Chloe. Movies made it look easy, she muttered as she grabbed onto a shaft beside her and hung her leg on another. They made every freaking thing look easy. Chloe heard a ding from her phone and she pulled it out and looked at it. It was a message from her mom. Meet us at the cottage, she muttered, reading the message. She sighed and shoved the phone back into her pocket. Now she had to find a way to get to the cottage. But she had to first find a way to get off the truck.. without breaking any of her bones of course. She suddenly heard the revving of an engine behind her. She turned her head and saw a familiar tyre and bumper. These guys just dont give up, do they? Chloe muttered with a groan. Now she had to find a way to not just get out without breaking any bone, but also without getting caught. She noticed the trailer had suddenly begun to slow down. The idiots just told the driver to stop. Chloe cussed in anger as she began racking her brain for a way of escape. The trailer came to a stop and the driver got down. He began discussing with the FBI agents who had alsoe down from their car. Chloe saw feets scurrying around the vehicle and one started to walk towards the area where she was. No, no, no, no, no, Chloe muttered repeatedly. She was way too young to go to jail. As she looked around for a means of escape, her eyes caught a circr object thatid on the ground, a few meters away from where she hung and she smiled. Bingo, she whispered with a grin. ****** Shes under the trailer, Justin, John said as he got into the car. Follow that vehicle. Justin immediately turned on the car and zoomed off after the trailer. As they approached the trailer, John searched the under for signs of anyone being there. He saw something move under and sighted a movement of hair, confirming his suspicions. Justin drove to the left side of the trailer and John motioned for the driver to stop the trailer. The driver ignored him and gave him the middle finger until John showed him his badge. It was then the driverplied and slowed the trailer to a stop. Is there any problem, sir? the driver asked in a thick southern ent as he got down from the trailer and approached John and Justin. Ive got loads of goods I need to deliver before night falls. Im John and this is Justin, John said as he shed his badge at the driver. We do not need much from you. All we just want is to search your truck. Search ma truck? the driver muttered. I aint holding no drugs or nothing. I just deliver them baking flours. Whats your name, sir? Justin asked. yton Grant, sir, the driver replied. Well, Mr. Grant, we just want to search your undercarriage. Nothing more, Justin exined and yton nodded. John brought out his gun as he walked towards the big truck. He heaved a big sigh and knelt down. Dont move, he shouted as he looked down and pointed his gun but to his greatest surprise, no one was there. Is she down there? Justin asked as John stood back up. Theres no one there, John muttered confused. No one there? Justin yelled shoving his fingers into his hair. But you saidC I know what I said, Justin, John yelled angrily. He sighed and walked back to the car. Lets just go, man. Wait, wait, wait, yton said, causing John and Justin to stop on their tracks. So you guys just stopped me for no damn reason. John was too tired to respond to him so he dragged Justin into the car. Goodnight, Mr. Grant, John said as he too entered the car. Justin then started the car and sped off as yton cussed at them. John didnt know how the girl had escaped. He could have sworn he saw her underneath the trailer. He sighed amdid his head on the head rest. If only he had checked well, he would have seen the manhole cover that was slightly open. ****** Chloe ran through the sewers. The whole ce stinks and the ground was slippery. All Chloe could hear was the sound of rushing water and the scurrying feet of rats. Some asionally climbed over her feet, causing her to yelp in fear. Yes, she was a fearless assassin but she was still a girl. Chloe kept on walking for what seemed like hours before she came to a gritted gate that led to the outside. She pushed the gate andnded on the grass. The river where the wastes of the sewers flowed into wasnt far from where sheid so she knew she was close to the cottage. She stood up and looked at the environment she was now in. Trees, both huge and little stood all over the ce. Ferncliff Forest, Chloe muttered as she stared at the trees. She heaved a big sigh and began her walk towards the little river as its trail led to her parents cottage. She found the river after some minutes and began following its trail. The whole ce was now getting dark when Chloe arrived at the cottage. Trails of smoke could be seening out of the chimney and the lights were on.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. She walked over to the door and knocked. She saw the curtain behind the door window move and she knew it was her dad checking to see who it was. The lock clicked and the door opened, revealing her dad standing with arge shotgun in his hands. My baby, Derrick screamed as he rushed to hug her. He paused halfway and scrunches his nose. Holy cheeses, you need a freaking bath. Chapter 19: Richard!! Chloe dried her hair with a towel and wrapped another around her waist as she stepped out of the bathroom. The whole ce was chilly and Chloe shivered. She breathed in her new smell deeply and smile. It was much more better than her earlier smell of poop.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. She walked up to her wardrobe and opened it. Some of the clothes in there were smaller than her size as they were from when she was little. She grunted in anger and was about closing the wardrobe when she sighted a pair of pyjamas by the side of the wardrobe. She picked the pyjamas and put it on before walking into the sitting room, where Jake sat. Her parents were probably outside. Arent we supposed to save up on gas? Chloe asked as she saw Jake watching a show on the television. What do you mean? Jake asked with a slurred voice, not taking his eyes from the television. Chloe sighed and said, we dont have much gas in the generator and its too risky to go into the city to buy some. So why dont we manage the one we have already? So we wont have to stress ourselves with gas. Well, beause my favorite show is on, Jake muttered, still not taking his eyes from the television and Chloe grunted in frustration. She walked up to the TV and unplugged it from the power outlet. Hey, Jake shouted as the TV went off. We are supposed to save the little gas we have left. So dont freakingin, Chloe retorted as she walked up to a small wooden stool and sat on it. But I was just about finding out if Cunningham was going to get married to Fiona. And if he was still in love with Catherine, Jake mumbled and Chloe sighed. Can you just forget about the TV for once and focus on what we have in front of us? You were the one who even caused this issue we are in by hiring an unproffessional to do a professionals job. And now youre justying on the couch, eating freaking popcorn and drinking sodas and watching a stupid show when youre supposed to be sober, Chloe screamed angrily and Jake just shrugged. This is my way of being damn sober, Chlo, he said as hezilyid on the couch. I am so freaking sober right now. Youre supposed to be thinking of what were supposed to be doing next but instead youre just sitting here, eating like an old dog, Chloe muttered angrily. Well, this old dog still got it, Jake said as heughed out loud. Man, I really cant handle your shit, Chloe mumbled as she stood up from the stool and walked to the door. As she was about walking out the door, Jake called her back, causing her to pause on her tracks. She turned back and looked at him angrily. What? she screamed. Could you please plug the television back in? he asked and Chloe sighed before walking out the door. Derrick and Diana stood outside, each hdong a shotgun on their hands. The whole ce was now dark and bats flew around the ce. Chloe stood on the porch and watched her parents talking to each other As she watched them, she began reminiscing the first time they brought her there. Chleo was thirteen years old when they brought her to the cabin. It was already seven years since they had adopted her. They had to move from their old ce in Nashville, Tennessee to Kingston in New York because of all the memories it brought her. You just have to follow this river, Diana had said to her while they walked to the cabin. You follow it and itll lead you straight to the cabin. Yeah, Derrick added. You can alsoe here anytime you want. The memories warmed her as the cabin was where she also started her first assassin training. Chloe? She heard Diana call her name, snapping her from her thoughts. She looked and saw Diana and Derrick staring at her with concern written all over their faces. Yeah, mom, Chloe answered as she wiped the tear that was threatening to fall from her eyes with the sleeve of her shirt. Watsup. Weve been calling your name for the past thirty seconds now, Diana said as she walked up the porch stairs to Chloe. Is everything okay? And are you crying? Nah, Chloe lied as she sniffed and used her sleeve to clean her runny nose. I just had something in my eyes. Uhun, Diana muttered. Chloe noticed Diana knew she was lying and she was happy she didnt press further. How are you feeling now? Derrick asked as Chloe amd Diana walked up to him. Most definitely better, Chloe said as she smiled. I do have a question I want to ask you guys though. Derrick slung his shotgun and said, alright, then. Ask us. Were all ears. Well, you guys were also chased by the agents too, she said and Derrick chuckled. He knew what she was about asking. How were you guys able to escape? I mean, you guys were chased by two vehicles. How were you able to maneuver through them and escape? Well, we actually had some external help, Diana replied with a slight grin. Chloe looked at her with a confused expression on her face. External help? External help from who? Chloe asked and Derrick shrugged. You guys aint going to tell me? Well, he is actually part of the FBI, Diana exined and Chloe grunted. A mole,Chloe muttered as sheughed. Im guessing its that weird handsome friend of the stupid agent. Whats his name, again? John Evans? Diana asked and Chloe nodded. Yeah, she said. Its his friend, right? No, its not his friend, Derrick said with a sigh. Hes way too good to be a mole. Um, whos it then? Chloe asked and just as Derrick was about replying her, they heard footstepsing towards them from the bushes. Derrick and Diana immediately cocked their guns and pointed it towards the direction of the footsteps and they saw a silhouette approaching them. Hey, Derrick, the person said and Derrick chuckled. Richard, he said with a smile. Chapter 20: ” The goddamn girl used the manhole!” Justin had agreed for John to stay with him since his girlfriend had returned back to her ce for the weekend. Immediately they entered the house, Justin ushered John into the bathroom for him to wash himself. He was sweating all over and the blood from the arsonist had dried on his body, all leaving a pungent stench. John showered, washing off all the smell and dried blood on his body. As he stepped out of the bathroom, he took a nce at the floor. It was now colored orange from the blood on his body. He sighed and breathed his new scent. It was way better than his previous one. John walked over to the wardrobe in his room and began searching for clothes to wear. All that were in the wardrobe were Justins clothes and they were a little bit too small for him as he was slightly huger than Justin. He settled for a blue shirt that couldnt button to the top and sweat pants that was more like a leggings than sweat pant. The whole ce was cold and John shivered. How was Justin coping like this? He walked to the sitting and met Justin sitting on the couch and watching the television. Justin looked up at him and asked, arent you supposed to be asleep? John chuckled and said to him, I just came to turn up the thermostat. Its really freezing I cant sleep. No, Justin said as he threw the bowl of popcorn he was holding, jumped up from the couch and stopped John from touching the thermostat. Dont turn it up. John looked at him with a confused expression on his face and asked,why shouldnt I turn it down? Well, its the normal temperature for me, Justin answered as he walked back to the couch. He picked his popcorn bowl amd stuffed a handful of popcorn in his mouth. Hmmm humph hum hump, he said in a muffled voice due to the popcorn in his mouth but John didnt get a word that he said. What did you say? John asked and Justin gulped down the popcorn in his mouth. I said it gets hot at night so thats why the thermostat has to be at this temperature, Justin said, not taking his eyes from the television. It gets hotter? John asked and Justin nodded. He then sighed and asked, arent you supposed to be in bed? Im not one to sleep early, Justin mumbled. His attention was now fully focused on the television and John knew he wasnt going to listen to anything he was going to say. He shook his head and muttered a goodnight before walking to his room. As heid on the bed, he began thinking of the events that had happened earlier. He had submitted his report to his boss, Richard. He had looked at him like he had gone crazy after reading where he wrote and she disappeared. John was still trying to wrap his mind on how she had done it. How was she able to have gone under a truck and just disappeared? He knew he had seen her under the truck, but was shocked him the most was that when he checked the undercarriage, no one was there. Not a single soul. How could she have just disappeared then if she hadnt been in the undercarriage? John sighed and turned his head to his side as he tried to catch some sleep. As he turned, he saw his trouser hung on the wall, still bloodied.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. Shoot, he muttered as he got off the bed and walked over to the trouser. He grabbed it and his shirt which hung next to it and was about going to put it in the washing machine when he heard a jiggle. He shook his trouser again to affirm if it was from his trouser he had heard the jiggle. After affirming that it was, he dug his hands into the pockets, searching for what was causing the sound. His hands felt something hard and metallic and he pulled it out. It was ten he realized what it was; the key his father had given him. John put the key into the sweatpants he was wearing and matched towards theundry room. He passed by Justin who was already asleep on the couch with the television on and still ying loudly. He walked to the TV and turned it off and was about heading to theundry room when he remembered something. Thermostat, he whispered as he walked over to the thermostat and cranked the temperature up. He smiled in satisfaction and then headed for theundry room. He put the clothes into the washing machine, put the detergent and turned it on. As the clothes began to wash, John took the time to map out his next moves. He had already lost his home and all his belongings to the fire so he had to think of a new ce to stay. He knew he wasnt going to be able to stay with his best friend for long because of his girlfriend. His insurance for the house was there but he knew finding the perfect house was going to be really really hard. He might find a house alright but theyll either be too far from his workce or too far from the bus statiom or too close to Latonyas house. That was why the perfect house was going to be needed and those houses were not easily found. The only choice he had left now was the house his father had bought. It had all the qualities to be a perfect house. It was close to his workce, close to a bus station and way too far from Latonyas ce. He looked at the key in his hands and sighed. He had no other choice. He was about bringing out his phone to call his dad when water sshed from the washing machine unto the clothes he was wearing. He cussed out loud in anger as he immediately ran to the washing machine to stop it from spilling out more water. Why doesnt Justin want to fix the goddamn thing? John muttered angrily as he stopped the machine. He stood and looked at his damp clothes and sighed. Justin really needed a plumber. He was about walking back up to change when he paused. Plumber, John muttered. His eyes suddenly went wide with realization. The goddamn girl used the manhole. Chapter 21: ” Your service will soon be needed” Chloe looked at the man sitting in front of her. She had seen him when they were leaving the house after being chased by the FBI. And she had also seen him chasing her and her parents during the car chase. So youre Johns boss, huh? Chloe asked and Richard nodded as he grabbed his martini amd sipped it. He looked way too old to be in the force and Chloe was sure she could go head on with him amd win. Yeah, Im his boss, Richard replied as he sipped the martini and dropped it on the table. Ive been his boss right from when he joined the force. That means you know him pretty well, huh? Chloe asked and he nodded. When Derrick and Diana told her that they had gotten help from someone in the force, Chloe was definitely not expecting it to be Johns boss. It came as a huge shock to her. Chloe looked at her parents who were still standing outside with their shotgun still in their hands. Derrick and Diana had told Richard to make himself at home while they went to make sure the perimeter was safe. They wanted to be sure he hadnt been followed. What do you know about John, Richard? Chleo asked Richard and he shrugged. All that I know, you and your parents basically know, he replied as he gulped down the martini. Chleo poured him another and he mouthed a thank you before proceeding to take a sip from it. He definitely had alcohol problems. So if you basically know all that we know of, then Im sure you know of our current ns, Chleo said and Richard nodded in affirmation. Your parents exined everything to me so Im actually up to date on you guys ns, Richard said with a big grin. Why was he doing all this? What was he to gain from Johns death? Chleo watched as Richard guped down the second ss she gave him amd requested for more. Chleo immediately poured him another, filling the wine ss to the brim. Do you know how much information John has about us and with whom he has been sharing those informations to? Chleo asked Richard and he shook his head. I might be Johns boss but he never tells me anything so I dont have an answer to your question,Richard responded. If you actually want to know all of that though, you can ask his best friend, Justin. Those two fools never leave each others side and they always share their secrets. Theyre like some freaking messed up Dora the explorer and go Diego go. Chleoughed at his remarks. He was really really drunk now. I am serious, man. Those two are as weird as weird can be.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. Yeah, right, she muttered with a light chuckle as she poured Richard another drink as he guped it down his throat and let out a groan. What do you stand to gain in all of this though? What is your gain from Johns death? Chleo asked and Richard shrugged. Well, for starters, I hate his freaking goddamn father, Richard said, his voice slurred. That man called Damien Evans. Thinks that just because he has money more than everyone else, he can unt it in our faces. Always buying shy cars and big houses and now he even wants to run for mayor. More money means more power for him so he is using the mayor for both. Seems like youve got a real beef with him, eh? Chloe muttered and Richardughed out loud. Beef is such beef is such a strong word, Richard said, his speech slurred. He finished his drink and motioned for her to add more for him but she refused bluntly. He was starting to get really drunk and she didnt want that. He then dragged the bottle from her hand and poured it into his ss. He changed his mind and decided to drink from the bottle. So thats why youre doing all this? Chloe asked and Richard shook his head. Not not only that, Richard said as he downed the bottle. Well, your father promised me a huge amount of money if Iplied. And I actually kinda need the money so killing two birds with one stone. Okay then, Chloe muttered as she rxed on her chair. She looked outside her window and saw her parentsing into the house. She rushed to the door and opened it for them. How are you and Richard bonding? Derrick asked with a smile as he walked into the sitting room. I actually need you guys toe save me from this torture, Chloe whispered and Derrick chuckled. They walked inside the house and paused upon seeing a drunk Richard with a half empty bottle of martini in his hands. Oh, Diana muttered. Hes drunk again. Hes been drunk before? Chloe asked and Diana nodded. He always gets drunk anytime hees over, she said. Damn this guy doesnt know how to control his drinking habits. Diana and Derrick walked over to the lounge chair opposite Richard and sat on it while Chloe sat on the wooden stool. Richard, Derrick called out and Richard answered with a hmm. We have to start mapping out the next phase of our n. Before we get into that though, can I know how he helped you two escape? Chloe asked amd Derrick sighed. That really doesnt matter right now, Derrick muttered as he dragged the martini bottle from Richards hand and ced it on the table. Enough drinking for now. Lets get talking. What what do you guys need me to do? Richard asked, his speech slurred. We need to know when John has moved into the mansion so we can start the next phase, Diana exined. Oh, Richard mumbled. The whole maid up and kill part? he asked and Diana nodded. Well I can I can only find that out tomorrow. Alright then, Derrick said as he stood up from the chair. How about I escorts you home? He helped Richard from the chair and led him outside the house. You need to get ready, Chloe, Diana said as she turned to face Chloe. Your services will soon be needed. Chapter 22: “My intuition was correct” She used the manhole to escape sir, John argued with his boss. She must have escaped in a manhole before I even looked under the trailer. If we hurry now and go check the sewers, Im sure we will find clues that will show that she was in the sewers. And maybe even find out her precise location. Richard looked at John keenly and said, how sure are you about that? You made a conclusion that she was under the trailer and you checked but she wasnt there. And now youre making another blind conclusion that she used the sewer tunnel? Can you prove that? John paused and dug his hands in his pocket. He could not prove it. He had this intuition that she might have used the tunnels and he wont know until they checked the sewers.Material ? N?velDrama.Org. You cant keep on going at this blindly. You need pure proof before youe to any conclusion. If we all go with our intuition, all of our cases would be mere wild goose chases, Richard said with a loud sigh. Come meet me when you have something much more important and reasonable to tell me, John, he said as he waved his hands at John, dismissing him. John left his office with anger brewing inside of him. How were they going to find the girl? His boss wasnt even acting like he wanted to continue the investigations. He was just cold feet on the whole matter. As John walked to his office, his mind was running with different thoughts. He wasnt watching where he was going as he bumped into someone and he dropped the files he was holding. So sorry, John said as he bent down and helped him with the files. He got up after packing the papers and was about handing it to the person when he saw who it was. He paused on his tracks, lost without words. D-dad? he stuttered after finding his voice. What are you doing here? Hey, John, he muttered with a small smile. I came to actually meet your boss and submit some files for the revenue produced for the police department. Hes going to distribute it. And I also wanted to use that medium to apologize for how ourst conversation ended. No, dad, John mumbled. Theres no need for you to apologize. I actually want to apologize myself for ming you without cause. Damien nodded at his words and said, its alright, John. I totally understand why you said what you said and did what you did. No, John muttered. I shouldnt have even done any of what I did. Youre my father and youre always looking out for my best. I should not have med you for something that youre not even capable of doing. He dug his hands into his pocket and brought out the house key his father had given it. Oh, the key, Richard muttered with a sigh. You can give it back now, he said as he made to grab the keys but John swerved it away from his hands. I didnt bring it out to give it back to you, John said with a slight smile. Im actually moving into the house now. Richards smiled slowly as he heard Johns words. Im d youvee to see why I did what I did, he said with a smile. I will call the movingpany to ship some furniture and essories to the house. When theyre ready, Ill tell you so you can move in. Thanks, dad, John croaked. I have to get going now. Will see youter. Damian nodded and turned to go while John continued his walk to his office. John, John heard Justin call out to him before he could walk into his office. He turned and saw him walking down the hallway towards me. He had some files in his hands and his eyes were red. Probably from the fact that he didnt sleep wellst night. He had constantly kept waking up and watching TV and now he was paying for it. Watsup, Justin, John said as Justin walked up to him. Have you told Richard about it yet? he asked and John nodded. I told him but he really doesnt believe me, John said and Justin shrugged. He might not believe you but that doesnt actually stop you from doing something about it though, Justin said and John looked at him, confused. What do you mean? he mumbled. Theres nothing I can do about it. He told me to leave the whole thing and thats what Im going to do. He then turned and was about entering the office when Justin held him back. Cmon, Justin said. I have never known you to be someone who gives up easily. And I dont expect you to now. What do you expect me to do, then? John asked. I cant conduct a search without the knowledge and approval of Richard. If he finds out, who knows what might happen to me? Justin smirked wildly and said, who said we were conducting a search officially? John looked at him with his brow raised and asked, what do you mean? How about we go y some Sherlock Holmes amd Watson? ********* John and Justin took a drive to the ce where they had stopped the trailer the other day. They stepped out of the car and walked up to the spot where the trailer had parked. This is where the vehicle was parked, Justin muttered. See any clue? John looked at the ground as he searched for something. His eyes widened as he found what he was looking for. A manhole. He walked up to the manhole and saw that it was slightly opened. Justin,e, he said as he motioned for Justin toe over. Whats it, John? Justin asked John as he walked up to him. What are we looking at here. John pointed to the half open manhole. There was a bloody handprint on it too. There, he said with a smile. This proves that my intuition was correct. Chapter 23: The explosion John crept into the manhole with the help of thedder and helped Justin climb down thedder. Justinnded with a grunt and dusted the pieces of moss on his shirt. The whole ce was damp and mosty. Moss grew everywhere on the walls and the lights that had been built to light up the sewers was broken. The air was thick with smell of poop and it made John gagged. Justin scrunched his nose as the smell of the sewers hit him hard and he shouted, holy buffalo wings! What is that pungent smell? John chuckled and said with a grin on his face, youre in the freaking sewers bro. How else did you expect this ce to smell. Besides, youre the one who brought the idea of searching the sewer tunnels. Now you have to face the consequences of your choice. He dug his hands into his pockets and brought out two pairs of nose plugs. He handed one to Justin with a smirk on his face and said, I got you covered though so there will be no need for that. I came prepared for the both of us. Justin collected his pair of nose plugs and stuck it into his nose. He breathed the fresh menthol scent from the nose plug and let out a deep sigh. He smiled and said, you are a life saver, John. John nodded and said, yeah, I know I am. He dug his hands into his back pocket and brought out arge mapping of the sewer tunnels. Whats that map for? Justin asked as he walked up to John and looked at the map. This is a mapping of the whole sewer tunnels, John replied as he ran his eyes on the paper. We will use this to navigate our way through the tunnels. He pointed to three dots and said, this are all different exits where she could have taken. There are actually up to a hundred that are scattered throughout the city. But only five actually lead to exits that are not easily essible. The rest lead to the streets and she would never get out of a manhole in the street. It will make a lot of people suspicious and we would have been alerted. Three out of the five exits that are not easily essible are gate passageways that lead back into the city. They lead to the library and the big clothing factory thats down main street. I dont really think she used those exits so we wont search there. Why do you think she wont use the gateways that lead to the library and the clothing? Justin asked. Those ces might be where she had used. With the way everything went before we lost her, Im not really sure shed go back to the city at all, John exined. She knows we will be searching for her so there is no way shed have used those exits. The other two on the other hand lead to different locations. One ends at the border of the city and the other ends at the Ferncliff forest. Alright then, Justin muttered. Where among these two exits do you think she used? John stared keenly at the map as different thoughts ran through is mind. I an thinking of us actually searching the two, John answered as he folded the map and shoved it into his back pocket. We might see clues thatll steer us in the right direction. Justin paused as he stared at the wall behind John keenly. He walked up to it and ced his hands on it. John walked up to him and asked, what is it? Justin chuckled before turning to John. Hand prints, John, Justin said with a smile. There is a bloody hand print on the wall. John walked to the wall and stared at it. Justin was right. There was a hand print, bloodied one, on the wall. John knew that no one had been to the sewers since they left. Youre right, John said to Justin with a smirk on his face. This just keeps on proving that she was down here. And we are going to find her. Yeah, we are, Justin said as he nodded. Lets get going then. John and Justin began their walk to the tunnel exits using the tunnel map John had brought with him to guide them. They saw lots of hand prints amd foot prints that also guided them on their quest. They then reached a cross road in the tunnels: one leading to the border of the city and the other leading to Ferncliff forest. Where do we search now? Justin asked and John pointed to the one leading to the citys border. I think we should follow that one, John said and Justin nodded. They walked down the tunnels for some minutes before John noticed something. The hand prints and foot prints he usually saw were no longer there anymore. They had just stopped. John motioned for Justin to stop and Justin paused on his tracks. What is it, John? Justin asked John who stood, eyeing the environment for more prints. Finding none, he turned to Justin and said, somethings wrong, Justin.Txt ? N?velDrama.Org. Whats wrong? Justin asked. The hand prints and foot prints arent here anymore, John muttered. She didnt use the path. Lets try the other. John and Justin walked back and turned to use the other part they had only walked for a minute when John found a footprint. That was proof that it was the right way he was using. John and Justin arrived at the exit that led to the first and paused. It was there the tracks ended. John pushed open the gritted gates and walked out of the tunnel before helping Justin out of the tunnel too. He looked around him and muttered, where do we go in from here? Suddenly, they heard a loud booom as they saw arge trail of smoke, rising to the sky and they both ran too see what had caused the explosion. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!