Ongoing

Chapter 8

Victor set the tray down on the table and gestured for Kristen to sit. Kristen hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to make of Victor's sudden appearance. But then, she decided to play along, curious about what he wanted.

As she sat down, Victor took a seat across from her. "I brought you some breakfast," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled.

Kristen raised an eyebrow, surprised by the gesture. "Thanks," she said, trying to sound casual.

Victor leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving Kristen's face. "So, how are you adjusting to life here?" he asked.

Kristen shrugged, trying to play it cool. "It's been...interesting," she said.

Victor chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I bet," he said.

As they talked, Kristen found herself feeling more and more at ease around Victor. He was easy to talk to, and he seemed genuinely interested in getting to know her.

Over the next few days, Kristen and Victor continued to talk, sharing stories and laughter. Kristen found herself looking forward to their conversations, feeling a sense of comfort and camaraderie with Victor.

But despite their growing friendship, Kristen couldn't shake the feeling that Victor was hiding something. She didn't know what it was, but she was determined to find out.

As the days turned into weeks, Kristen and Victor's friendship deepened. They would spend hours talking, sharing stories and laughter. Kristen found herself feeling more and more at ease around Victor, and she began to see him as a friend.

One day, Victor invited Kristen to join him on a walk around the estate. Kristen agreed, and they set out into the crisp afternoon air.

As they walked, Victor told Kristen more about his life before he joined Antonio's clan. He spoke about his family, his childhood, and his dreams.

Kristen listened, entranced by Victor's stories. She found herself feeling a deep connection to him, a sense of understanding and empathy.

But even as she felt this connection, Kristen couldn't shake the feeling that Victor was still hiding something. She didn't know what it was, but she was determined to find out.

As they walked, they came to a small garden hidden away on the estate. Victor smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

"I wanted to show you this," he said, his voice low and gentle. "It's my favorite place on the estate."

Kristen looked around, taking in the beauty of the garden. She felt a sense of peace wash over her, a sense of calm.

"Thank you for showing me this," she said, smiling up at Victor.

Victor smiled back, his eyes warm with friendship. "Anytime," he said.

As they stood there, Kristen felt a sense of gratitude towards Victor. He had shown her kindness and compassion, and she appreciated it.

But even as she felt this gratitude, Kristen knew that she couldn't let her guard down. She was still a prisoner, and she had to keep her wits about her if she was going to escape.

What happens next