I woke up in the morning when someone knocked on the door. I sit on the bed, expecting it to be him, but to my surprise, a young lady wearing a maid's uniform entered the room. She bowed down and greeted me.
"Good morning, ma'am."
"Who are you?" I asked, hoping for an answer.
"I am your personal maid, ma'am. I will follow whatever commands you give."
"What? No, no, no. I'm not living here. I am planning to get out today after I talk to your boss."
"He asked me to tell you that you will be joining him for breakfast."
I frowned and said, "No, why would I do that?"
"Ma'am, you can take a shower now."
"I said no."
"After you take a shower, I will show you your closet."
"I said I am not living here. Don't you know your boss kidnapped me?"
She didn't look at me and didn't respond.
I got up and faced her.
"Tell me where I could exit."
"Ma'am, please do it now."
"I don't know your boss. I want to go home," I whispered to her.
"Ma'am, please. I'm begging you. If you don't do as he asks, my boss will fire me," she bowed down and begged.
The words she spoke astounded me. Would he fire you for disobeying him alone?
She gave a nod of agreement.
My level of rage is increasing. How did he have such power over people, getting them to do everything he said?
I hesitated to agree to the maid's request, but I did. I couldn't handle the idea that someone may lose their job as a result of my disobedience.
I started strolling after her in quest of the restroom.
I inquired, resolved to complete my chore, "Where is the bathroom?"
She replied, pointing in the direction, "Right this way, ma'am."
I'm startled when I see the translucent restroom in front of me. I couldn't handle the idea of taking a shower in a place where anyone walking in would see me completely naked.
My fury rises as memories of that enigmatic man rush back to me. It's not feasible. If he were really capable of committing such a transgression, I would act immediately.
My trepidation was sensed by the maid, who told me, "Don't worry, ma'am. I will wait outside."
I nodded in appreciation for her insight. I entered the restroom with a mixture of trepidation and resolve, confident that my privacy would be respected.
I was able to gather my thoughts in peace once she left the room. Even if the thought of an unexpected visitor entering the room still makes me uneasy, I reminded myself of the maid's sacrifice and the danger she was taking in order to maintain my solitude. I decided to take a fast shower in the bathroom in order to complete in just five minutes, so I mustered up the guts to go in. I don't want to take the chance of someone seeing me.
When I was finished, I shouted out to the maid to let her know that I was done.
She said, "Ma'am, please come with me"
I followed her, appreciating her lead as we made our way to the closet room in the hopes that it could offer some explanations or a way out of this confounding scenario.
As we entered the closet area, the maid remarked, "Here, ma'am. You can pick your outfit for today."
I couldn't help but wonder why choosing an attire for a straightforward breakfast was necessary. The maid promptly corrected herself, saying, "That's his order, ma'am."
I kept my mouth shut since I knew that arguing now would be pointless. I then entered the room. The variety of clothing from numerous brands, the abundance of shoes I could only dream of possessing, and the pricey, branded bags that capture my attention as I take in the scene before me stun me.
I was compelled to inquire, "What is all this?"
With poise and professionalism, the maid said, "These are the options provided for you, ma'am. My employer wanted you to have access to the finest attire and accessories."
Although I'm startled, I'm left feeling conflicted—grateful given the chance to wear such wonderful stuff, but also uneasy and unsure about the motivations behind this extravagant exhibition.
The maid said, "Ma'am, this is all yours."
The truth finally hit me, and the magnitude of it all astounded me. I repeated, "Mine?" inquiring as to its ownership.
The maid nodded, keeping a steady look.
I attempt to explain my argument while confused. However, I didn't inquire about it because I didn't need all of this.
She said, "Ma'am, he gladly provides it to you. And if you need something that isn't listed here, just let me know, and I'll get it for you."
My discomfort is only increased by the maid's statements. I feel suddenly lavished with generosity, which makes me wonder further about the motivations underlying it all.
I was overwhelmed by the profusion of expensive stuff and had trouble understanding why there was so much of it. I struggle to see why someone would require more than what is required to live comfortably.
The maid understood my desire for seclusion, "I will wait outside, ma'am," she said.
I acknowledged her by nodding, and she left me alone to look around as she shut the door behind her. There appeared to be more apparel and accessories in the room than anyone could ever require. He had to have acquired a whole department store, I couldn't help but ponder.
I shook my head as I looked through the extensive assortment, perplexed by the idea that dressing extravagantly is expected even for a simple meal. In contrast, we are satisfied to eat breakfast in our jammies or loose clothes in our daily lives.
Despite how appealing these things are, I find myself doubting their genuine worth and the function they perform.
I decide to go for an above-the-knee denim skirt after giving it about ten minutes of thought. I matched it with a white long-sleeve turtleneck sweater and tucked it in the skirt. I chose white sneakers that go with the color scheme to finish the outfit.
I added a hint of pink lipstick to my minimal makeup as I pulled back my long hair. After one last look in the mirror, I am happy with how I seem. It will work in this situation.
I exited the room after finishing getting ready and told the maid, "I'm done."
She gave me the go-ahead with a nod as she pointed in the direction of our final goal. I couldn't help but worry what this morning gathering had in store for me.
My eyes were pulled to a stunning pool and a table covered with a variety of food as soon as we left the home. And the man I've been attempting to comprehend is there, seated on a chair.
I approached him while still being both nervous and curious. I nod in appreciation of his presence and take a seat.
He said, "Good morning," and grinned.
I couldn't help but answer with a tinge of resentment. I grumbled, "There is no good in the morning," and left.
He continued to smile at my remark, appearing unconcerned. He was interested, "What made you follow my order?"
I hesitated before answering. I said, "Because of your threat," indicating the real reason for my obedience.
His eyes briefly flash with curiosity as he considers what I've said. He continued by saying, "So, you feel threatened," as if he were interested in my response.
I stood my ground and didn't let his attempts to dominate me have an impact on me.
I spoke forcefully, my voice full of resolve, "No, I don't care if you hurt me or whatever happens, but I won't stand by and let someone lose their job because of me."
He curtly nodded in answer to my reply. At least, he said, "you get that."
I was irritated by his arrogance and gave him a piercing look to let him know it.
He gave the command, "Eat," once again.
I said forcefully, stressing my independence, "I shall eat because I want to, not because you commanded it."
"From now on, you will follow my orders," he urged as he leaned closer and fixed his unrelenting eyes on me.
I laughed at his arrogance and pressed the issue. I don't even know you, yet you behave as if you have authority over my life, so who are you to tell me what to do?"
As I wait for him to explain, trying to find some sense in this strange predicament I find myself in, my words hang in the air.
"I am Lucca----"
I signaled with my raised hand for him to halt talking. I emphasized, "I don't care who you are." Finding a route home is all that matters to me.
He appeared unaffected by my statements as he sat back in his chair. He continued to look at me as if I were just something he had in his hands. I refused to be frightened by him as I returned his eyes with anger.
I took the spoon and fork with resolve and started eating while looking at him. He tried to use his influence over me, but I wouldn't be intimidated or swayed.
He noted my stubbornness and said something unexpected in an almost admiring tone. "You are an amazing woman," he said. Most ladies would turn away because they couldn't stand my stare, but you're not scared to look me in the eye.
I kept eating, refusing to let his remarks impact me. I am aware of my value and will not allow myself to be seen as someone who is easily intimidated.
I hesitated, startled by his brazen remark. The subsequent laughs just increased my discomfort.
I said, ready to stand my position, "Why would I be afraid? You are still a human being, just like me." I persisted on eating, refusing to be intimidated by his actions.
He replied with a mocking chuckle, as if my disobedience had amused him. He said, his voice tinged with a note of humor, "I like that spirit."
I didn't let his comments or laughing sway me; I kept my unflinching look.
He added, oozing with conceit, "But I doubt you can maintain that spirit if I were to kiss you."
My eyes widen as I feel a wave of rage wash over me. His comment goes too far and disrespects my independence and limits. With anger in my voice, I made a clear statement.
You have no right to breach my personal space or make such unacceptable statements. Respect my limits. Your presumptions about my emotions are meaningless.
He stood up and stepped closer, invading my personal space, and I felt a sense of uneasiness and panic flood over me. My instincts urged me to protect myself, but I chose to keep my gaze elsewhere and stand still.
He murmured in my ear, "Are you threatened?" His voice a disturbing mixture of entitlement and conceit.
He went one step further in an effort to entice me before I could respond and bit my ear.
I immediately pushed him away, putting space between us since I was shocked and appalled by his behavior. My blood is boiling with rage over the breach of my limits.
My body was tight from a combination of rage, anxiety, and discomfort, but I couldn't feel it. My outrage was further heightened by the fact that he was grinning in response to my grief. How could he?
I stared at him with narrowed eyes, feeling both annoyed and uneasy. My unease increased as a result of his casual tone and casual use of my name.
With mistrust in my voice, I said, "I never told you my name." The question "How did you know?"
The smile continued to linger on his face as he reclined in his chair. He answered cryptically, "Let's just say it was an easy piece of information to acquire."
As my anxiety grew, I understood that there is more going on here than first appears. I stayed vigilant, determined to safeguard myself and learn the facts regarding his behavior and how he came to know who I was.
I struggled to control my rage as I clinched my hand even more firmly. I was appalled by his boldness and haughtiness, and the idea of having to follow his orders just made me more determined to fight back.
I firmly stated, "I will not go anywhere with you," with a hint of rebellion in my voice.
His tone became more authoritative as he leaned forward. It's a command, not a request, he said.
I clinched my teeth and felt a wave of defiant rebellion. I didn't let him rule me, and I'm not going to obey his commands either.
I said furiously, "I will not be subject to your orders." "I am self-sufficient, and I choose my own activities and destinations."
I held my ground, prepared to defend my independence and battle for my freedom.
He beckoned his security over and said something to him as I watched. As I proceeded to eat, a sense of caution accompanied my growing appetite as uncertainty filled the air.
He immediately departed without saying anything, but his bodyguard is still there, staring directly at me. As I completed my dinner and realized I had to return to the room, a wave of anxiety swept over me.
I got to my feet with the intention of going back to the safety of my room, but the bodyguard intervened and blocked my way.
I said, "What are you doing? I need to go back to my room," in a forceful but slightly uneasy voice. I looked around me in an effort to find a way out or someone who might be able to assist me.
I attempted to wriggle my wrist out of his hold as a wave of annoyance and fear surged through me.
I said, my voice a mingling of fear and rage, "Let go of me!" I've been clear: I won't be traveling with him.
However, the security strengthened his hold on my wrist while disregarding my protests, so my cries were unheard.
I cried out again, my voice getting angrier, "Stop it!" I fought against his grip, trying to release myself and get away from this predicament. I feel fear rushing through me as I become aware of how serious the situation is.
I persisted in my resistance because I was determined to stand up for my autonomy and keep from being coerced into doing anything I didn't want to.
I grudgingly found myself in the car with the man who has been controlling my life, feeling dejected and trapped. I've been pushed into this predicament against my will despite my objections and efforts to fight back.
I gazed at him, a mixture of rage, irritation, and a trace of fear visible in my eyes. His smirk simply helped to enrage me further, as it seemed to be making fun of my powerlessness and lack of control in this circumstance.
I sat in the car, content for the moment despite my unwavering will to reclaim my independence and break away from his influence.
*******************
As he explained that he had brought me here to get my signature for a vacation to Italy, my perplexity and fury increased. I'm caught off guard by the suddenness of the request, and I violently decline.
I said, my voice rising with a resolute "No!" "I'm not signing anything, especially before I've read the fine print or given my approval,"
I cast a quick glance towards the man watching us in the hopes that he could step in or provide some context. He didn't speak, though, and his eyes were opaque.
The man beside me seems impatient, and I become more suspicious of his intentions and the possible repercussions of defying him. I was, however, resolved to safeguard my independence and use good judgment while making decisions for myself.
As Lucca dragged me in the direction of the man holding the papers, I felt fright and dread coursing through me. My voice was desperate and tinged with vulnerability as I fought against his hold.
I yelled, "Let go of me!" the room reverberating with my cries. "I won't abide by your demands," you said.
As I felt the weight of my impotence in this circumstance, my heart began to beat. I persisted in my resistance, twisting and squirming in Lucca's hold in an effort to find a way to escape this restraint.
My urge to restore my independence and escape this entanglement only serves to increase my will to fight his control.
Despite my valiant efforts, Lucca was able to forcibly take my fingerprint. I had a wave of rage and irritation at not being able to withstand his overwhelming might.
He let go of his hold on my body, but he kept a firm hold on my left wrist as a quiet reminder of his power. He urged that I sign the documents, and the room echoed his demand.
I refused, my voice laced with defiance as I gave him a determined stare in the eye. I firmly said, "No!" I would not submit to his demands.
I was determined in my unwillingness to submit to his attempts to influence and control me, despite my frightened heart. I won't voluntarily give up my autonomy and agency.
I resisted being frightened by Lucca's threats and manoeuvring tactics and held my ground. I kept my rebellious look on, ready to stand up for my independence and limits.
I firmly answered, my voice full of determination, "I am not signing, and I most certainly will not permit you to kiss me." "I'm not worried about your rage, and I won't be forced into doing what you want," she said.
I resisted allowing the lingering feeling of fear and uncertainty to control me. I find strength in my will to speak out for myself and retake control over my decisions and deeds.
I could feel a mixture of panic and uneasiness setting in as Lucca's face inched closer to mine, his intentions plain. I refused to let him dominate my personal space and emotions because the line he was crossing was intolerable.
I was able to speak up after gathering my courage, despite my voice quivering from a mix of anxiety and resolve. I said, my voice hard and steady, "Let me go."
I returned his gaze in the hopes that my resistance and denial would be sufficient to stop him from continuing. He will hear and appreciate my request for respect and acknowledgement of my autonomy.
He moved closer to me and said, "You don't care?" Our faces were just an inch apart, and I felt his body pressing on mine. Now I could sense his breathing. He looked at my lips and bit his lips. I was uneasy. What kind of man would do what he wants? He was going to kiss me when I said, "Let me go."
"I like being in this position, and you indicated a while ago that you don't mind if I kiss you, so why would I?" he said.
What should I decide? decided to go with him or ended up kissing this stranger? Even if I don't want to, I know he will still push me to sign.
I said, "I'll sign the paper.
He continued to focus on my lips.
"Let me go," I pleaded.
He continued to look at me as he gently let me go. I averted my gaze.
I signed the documents grudgingly as I felt a strong sense of resignation setting in. I am intensely aware of the fact that I no longer have control over my own fate and am being compelled to make choices against my will. My situation was a continuous reminder of my confinement, and it was heavy on my shoulders.
After the paper was signed, Lucca and I walked out of the building. I followed him in silence on this excursion, never wanting to have a quiet travel partner. I felt a mix of resignation and dread as a result of the ambiguity of what lies ahead.
My heart ached for escape and independence, but the reality of my predicament became all too clear. I must now make my way down this uncharted route and restore myself, hoping that a chance for liberty would come my way along the way.
As we got into the car, I summoned the confidence to tell Lucca the truth about our position, my voice shaking with a mixture of dread and fury.
I accused him of saying that we were going to Italy, looking for some sign of sincerity in his answer.
Lucca looked at me, but I couldn't tell what he was thinking. He said simply, "Yes," and made no additional comment.
As I raised my concerns, my annoyance reached a boiling point. I said, underlining the gravity of the issue, "This is kidnapping."
"I already told you before, your family sold you."
I gasped out, the sorrow and disbelief in my voice clear to hear. "How could you do this to me?" I asked.
Lucca's face softened a little, and I briefly noticed a trace of sympathy in his eyes. He said, his voice laced with a mixture of anger and resignation, "Why not ask that to your family?"
I emphasized my fear by asking, "What are we going to do in Italy? Are you planning to kill me there?"
Lucca said in a calm voice, "I tell you, I have no desire to hurt you.
I pressed, demanding a straight response, "So what is the point of bringing me along, and why did you take me against my will?"
He said calmly, "I can explain when we get home."
I remarked with annoyance in my voice, "You're impossible, kidnapping someone simply because you want to."
He gave me a serious look before saying, "Yeah, I'm impossible."
I didn't comprehend his carefree demeanor. How could he so nonchalantly disregard such a grave act? I had a rush of rage and terror at the same time.
"I'm not your wife just because you purchased me for 10 million pesos, despite what you claim."
"You don't get to tell me what to do."
I said sarcastically, "Oh, does my right come included in the 10 million pesos?"
He instructed the driver to accelerate the vehicle.
We took a ten-minute drive to go to his house. I didn't notice that he had followed me as I hurriedly got out of the car.
I noticed he was in the room and questioned, "Why are you here?"
He moved towards me as I moved backward, saying, "I don't have enough patience for you, lady."
I said, "I don't have patience either, old man.
He stared at me with a mixture of astonishment and audacity, asking, "What? Old man?"
I questioned, "Why? Does it hurt your ego?"
He sneered, "Women are chasing me and begging for my attention, while you?"
I asked sarcastically, "Why? Do you want me to do what other women do to you?"
"You're driving me crazy," he complained.
I firmly said, "I am not interested in you, old man."
I was unaware that a wall was behind me. Oh, dear. I felt confined once more. Does he like to trap me?
He drew nearer to me.
I assertively remarked, "What you're doing won't frighten me."
He warned, "How about a French kiss to close your mouth?"
Once more, a danger. Grrr. He was irritating me as well. He didn't appear to be phased by my rage or disobedience.
I averted my gaze. He was in a horrible mood right now, and if I provoked him, he may hurt me, especially if he was actually going to kiss me.
He moved backward. "We'll visit the shops tomorrow because we're going to Italy the day after."
I gave him a glance but kept quiet. I didn't want to fall victim to his traps once more.
He gave me another glance before he unlocked the door. He said, "We will be having dinner later," and then he walked away.
I sat on my bed, attempting to breathe. After battling with him all day, I felt so worn out. What must I do to foil his scheme?
***********
I chose to get ready for supper since I was bored and had no entertainment options or people with whom to chat. I didn't care about making an impression on him, but I still wanted to wear something appropriate. I went into the closet area and looked through the items, trying to decide which outfit would be ideal for tonight.
I sat on a chair and thought about my options. If I couldn't get out of this predicament here, I probably wouldn't have a chance to get out of it in Italy either, especially because I didn't know the country very well. I needed to devise a strategy or discover a means to exert some control over my situation. But for the time being, I concentrated on choosing a look, thinking that at least it would help me feel a bit more at ease throughout dinner.
I looked at the silver outfit with glitter hanging in front of me. With a plunging neckline and a short length that would reveal more skin than I was comfortable with, it was definitely provocative. In the midst of my serious concentration, I clutched my chin and had an unusual notion. What if I tried to lure him away with this dress? I had a fleeting thought of a scheme, but I soon rejected it. I couldn't picture me lowering myself to that or surrendering my morals.
But a second notion came just after it. If I carried out this strategy, I might have a chance to get away. I could use his interest in me to my advantage if I played my cards well. I shook my head in uncertainty. I had to carefully prepare it because it was a hazardous move. It was a desperate action, but given my current situation, extreme measures were necessary.
***********************
Lucca's pov
I'm telling my Aunt that I'll be leaving for Italy tomorrow when I'm at her place. As expected, my Aunt's face exhibited a melancholy expression." I assumed you would stay here for another week, not so fast."
I apologized to Aunty and said, "I've changed my plans as a result of that woman."
Aunty said worriedly, "Why? What did she do?"
I said, attempting to quickly sum up the problem, "She's stubborn."
My Aunt cautioned Lucca, her anxiety audible in her voice, "you know, Lucca, you still have time to think about what you're doing. It may harm you."
"I know what I'm doing, Aunt," I assured her.
My Aunt pushed, her brows furrowed, "But what if she finds out the real reason why you kidnapped her?"
I firmly stated, "She will never know," intending to keep my true intentions a secret.
My Aunt said, her fear audible in her voice, "How about the people in Italy? What if they start talking about her?"
I responded assuredly, "I've already thought about that, I have a plan in place, and Rocco is there to manage everything."
My Aunt said, doubting my activities, "Do you think Rocco will agree with what you're doing?"
I said, confident in Rocco's commitment, "I know he won't initially, but he will eventually understand my reasons."
My Aunt sighed, understanding the resolve in my gaze, "I can't stop you, can I?"
Knowing that my choice was irrevocable and that there was no going back, I nodded.
***********
Laura's pov
In an effort to relax, I told myself, "I can do this, if not now, when?" My plan weighed heavily on me, but I knew I had to go forward quickly. Delaying it will just make my confinement worse. I would have a chance to escape if I carried out my strategy exactly as I had planned. I told myself to maintain my concentration and carefully carry out my plan. It was time to act and take charge of my own destiny.
I inhaled deeply and emerged from the house wearing the bold silver glitter dress. To round off the outfit, I added silver stilettos and curled my hair. My normal approach wasn't used in this situation, but desperate times called for extreme methods. I had to be willing to go outside of my comfort zone and do whatever it necessary to secure my own survival in a scenario when it was crucial. Survival sometimes required embracing the strange and taking chances you had never taken before.
My stilettos made an echoing sound with each stride, drawing his attention. I couldn't help but smile internally as soon as I noticed that he was turning to look at me. There was no going back now that this was my chance.
His gaze followed every inch of my body as he swallowed, and his face suggested that he was mesmerized by my change.
My eyes cautiously swept the area as I descended the steps, noting how many bodyguards were present. One... two... three... four. I made a mental tally while I evaluated the circumstance.
When I got to the pool area, I saw that there was just one chef and one bodyguard present. There was a brief window of opportunity. As I made my way to the table, I pretended to be calm while keeping my eyes glued to Lucca's back. He continued to be lost in his own thoughts, oblivious to my presence.
I said, seductively, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
He fixed his gaze on me as he searched for a reason for my abrupt shift in behavior.
I sat down and began drinking my wine before he could ask.
He did so while continuing to look directly at me. I caught his intense look back.
He eventually uttered, "You're stunning."
I grinned and remarked, "I thought you didn't like me?"
With a tinge of seduction in his voice, He said, "If I didn't like you, I would never do this."
I reached for a grape and began to nibble on it carefully while keeping my eyes on him.
He sternly admonished, "Don't look at me like that."
I said, my voice hoarse with need, "Why?"
He said, his voice a mixture of need and reserve, "I can't guarantee that I'll be able to control myself if you don't stop doing that."
With a voice dripping with seduction, I questioned, "Why would you want to stop yourself from indulging in the pleasure that is right in front of you?" as I ran my fingers down to my neck and along my cheeks.
He forced a hard swallow, obviously perturbed by what I did. My strategy appeared to be working.
he laughed seductively, "Why the sudden change of heart? I told you, no woman can resist temptation like me."
I could feel his gaze lingering on my body with each stride I made. I couldn't help but laugh at the situation. Ethel would be surprised if she found out what I was doing.
He had no idea, though, that once I got away, he would end up in jail.
As I got closer to him, I halted and leaned in so that our noses were practically in contact. I said, "Enjoy the dinner," with a grin on my face. He grabbed my wrist and pulled me firmly towards him, squeezing my body against his as I turned to get back to my seat.