His Unveiled Passion

Stephen took Tessa's hand out of his coat pocket and held it in his palms, rubbing them gently.

"These desserts and hot drinks were prepared just now on my orders. If you get hungry, have something to eat. If you need anything else, let me know, and I'll have someone prepare it."

Tessa shook her head. "That's not necessary."

Stephen led Tessa to the couch, picked up the remote, and turned on the large screen in front of them. With a few casual presses, the screen displayed a surveillance feed of the basement.

"This is the basement."

The display was divided into four smaller screens, showing different angles of the basement.

In one of the screens, Jacqueline's face was clearly visible.

Tessa's hand tightened slightly. She stared at the screen, subconsciously slowing her breathing.

From another angle, the full view of Jacqueline was visible. She was curled up in a corner, her hands and feet bound with rope. Her face bore injuries, and her eyes were filled with fear and despair.

Tessa pursed her lips, her jaw set.

first time they met, Jacqueline had once seemed innocent, pretending

incident at the horse ranch, Jacqueline had called her "Tessa" in a sweet tone, begging her to teach her how to ride. Tessa had helped her in good faith, but Jacqueline had

Stephen hadn't been

confusion written in her eyes. "Why would she do those things? If she simply disliked me, she didn't have to go

either. I'll ask

eyes and softly hummed in response. She sat on the couch, her expression difficult to

hands in his and meeting her eyes. "Tess, wait for me, alright? If anything happens, just call me. I'll

"Alright."

Stephen ruffled her hair before standing up

appeared on the surveillance screen. He stood about three or four

Steve, you finally came to see me!" The moment Jacqueline saw Stephen, she seemed to lose control, crying loudly and trying to run

hoarse, making her desperate cries

secured to the iron gate next to her. Jacqueline was

and a

permission

Tessa heard the pain and longing in Jacqueline's