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.

had once seemed innocent, pretending to be sweet and

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 deliberately framed her, accusing her of pushing her into

Stephen hadn't been fooled by

those things? If she simply disliked me, she didn't have

what I don't understand either. I'll ask her directly

on

in his and meeting her eyes. "Tess, wait for me, alright? If anything happens, just

"Alright."

her hair before standing up and

after, Stephen's figure appeared on the surveillance screen. He stood about

Stephen, she seemed to lose control, crying loudly and trying to

making her desperate cries

and feet were bound, and the ropes were secured to the iron gate next to her. Jacqueline was

brows furrowed, and a cold air

gave you permission

Tessa heard the pain and longing in Jacqueline's voice as she called out,