LOVE IN THE SHADOW

A mansion stood majestically behind a remote-controlled gate, adorned with intricate designs that gleamed in the sunlight. As the gates swung open, a sweet fragrance wafted through the air, carried by the gentle breeze rustling through the lush greenery surrounding the estate. The scent of blooming flowers - jasmine, roses, and lavender - enveloped the senses, setting the tone for a luxurious retreat.

Upon entering the compound, the eye was drawn to the sprawling mansion, its exterior walls painted a sleek black that seemed to absorb the light around it. The roof gleamed with gold accents, subtly hinting at the opulence within. Large windows framed the facade, allowing natural light to dance across the lavish interior.

Inside, the mansion was a masterclass in sophisticated design. Gold accents adorned the walls, complementing the black marble floors that shone like polished ebony. Plush furnishings in rich fabrics - velvet, silk, and leather - invited relaxation, while stunning artwork and chandeliers added a touch of elegance.

The compound itself was a haven of leisure and recreation. A large swimming pool sparkled like a sapphire, its crystal-clear waters inviting all to indulge in a refreshing dip. Adjacent to the pool, a state-of-the-art gym beckoned fitness enthusiasts, equipped with the latest equipment and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding garden.

The garden, a tranquil oasis, was meticulously landscaped with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and towering trees that provided shade and seclusion. Meandering pathways led to secluded seating areas, perfect for contemplation or romantic trysts.

Beneath the mansion, a network of underground rooms hummed with activity. Maids bustled about, ensuring every aspect of the estate was immaculate, while guards stood vigilant, ever-watchful and protective of the property and its occupants.

As night fell, the mansion transformed into a dazzling spectacle, its exterior illuminated by subtle lighting that highlighted its architectural splendor. The scent of flowers lingered, mingling with the night air, as the estate settled into its nocturnal rhythm, a sanctuary of luxury and security.

A lady, likely in her early fifties, sat on the couch with a worried look. Despite her age, she exuded a sense of elegance and poise, her expensive outfit accentuating her refined features. Her eyes, however, betrayed her concern, as she fidgeted with her hands, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of her son's safety.

Behind her, her son, Andy, paced back and forth, as he spoke on the phone. His status and confidence were palpable, but his eyes betrayed a hint of worry, a testament to the gravity of the situation.

Seated on the adjacent couch was the old man, likely in his late seventies, his face lined with age and worry. His eyes, though tired, sparkled with concern as he watched Andy with a keen gaze. The guards surrounding the room stood at attention, their black suits and shaded glasses giving them an air of professionalism and authority.

"What is happening?" the lady asked, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke. "Hope nothing bad has happened to my son." She sobbed.

"Don't think like that, Mom," Andy said, trying to reassure her as he continued to speak on the phone. "I'm sure Miguel is somewhere safe."

"Andy, did you call to inform his friend?" Grandpa asked and Andy nodded, still engrossed in his phone call.

"I did already, Nelson is out of the state, right now, he's on his way after I told him Miguel is missing."

"But he was not alone when he said he was on his way home, he is always surrounded by his men, and now they are nowhere to be seen. Hope they weren't attacked by his enemies."

"Let's just hope nothing goes wrong," grandpa said, his voice, trepidation.

The trio sighed, as Andy continued to pace and try to connect with people who might know his brother's whereabouts.

Some hours later, the whole family had gathered, and their faces tense with worry. A young elegant lady in her late twenties sat quietly, tears streaming down her face as she sat with two other ladies of similar age. Another elegant lady sat next to her husband, her little daughter perched on her father's lap as she played with her toy.

Nelson stood behind the couch, his eyes lost in thought as he pondered what might have happened to his friend. The atmosphere was heavy with tension.

"This can't go on like this," one of the ladies said, her voice trembling with emotion. "We need to find him."

Her companions nodded in agreement, their faces mirroring their distress.

"The search has been on for hours," another lady said. "Uncle can't just vanish like that."

"What if he was attacked and buried somewhere?"A third lady spoke up.

"Let's not jump to conclusions," Nelson said. "Nothing's happened to him. I'm sure he's somewhere safe. He's always been one step ahead of his enemies."

The lady seated with her husband spoke up, her voice filled with fear.

"I'm scared of what might happen." Her husband wrapped his arms around her, offering what comfort he could.

"Everyone knows who big bro is," Andy said. "Even god is afraid of him. No one can touch him and get away with it. I'm a hundred percent sure he's somewhere safe and will return home."

"I believe that too," their mother said. "If anything happens to him, our lives will be over."

"Nothing will happen to him, he'll return home." The lady's husband said.

"Let's pray for his safe return," grandpa said, his voice filled with emotion.

The family nodded, their faces somber, as they collectively held their breath, hoping for the best.

___________

*Summer apartment*

Summer was busy in the kitchen, whipping up breakfast while keeping a watchful eye on the stranger still unconscious on the couch. Just then, the doorbell rang, and Jane burst in, her enthusiasm infectious.

"What's up, b*tch!" Jane exclaimed, her voice booming through the house. Summer hurried out of the kitchen.

"Can you keep it down?" she requested,

"Fine, I'll keep it down," she said, her voice still loud, but slightly more subdued. As she approached the stranger, her eyes locked onto his face, and she bit her lip sexily.

"When is he going to wake up? I really need to see the color of his tempting eyes,"

"I don't know, and I just wish he could wake up soon and go back to where he came from,"

"You can't be serious," she said, as she followed Summer into the kitchen. "This is a chance to have a man to yourself."

"He's not my type," she said. "He looks dangerous. I'm sure his wife and children are worried about him."

"Does he look married? I don't see a ring on his finger," she said, her voice teasing.

"That's not my problem," she said. "I just pray he wakes up soon enough."

"If I had a man like this, I'd never wish for him to wake up soon," she said. "I'd want to keep staring at him. He's an angel in human form."

"Can we stop talking about this?" she asked. "Just go help me clean him up."

"Really? I'd love to do that," she said, her voice filled with enthusiasm. But Summer quickly stopped her, knowing her flirtatious intentions.

"Don't worry, I'll do it," Summer said firmly. "Just continue with the cooking." Jane pouted, feigning disappointment.

"Not fair, Summer!" she yelled, her voice playful.

Some moments later, Summer came out of the kitchen, holding a bowl of water and a hand towel. She moved towards the stranger on the couch, while Jane watched from the dining table, busy having her breakfast. she hesitated in taking off the blanket from the stranger's body.

"Why are you hesitating?" She asked chewing her hotdog gently, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

"I don't know, it feels strange doing this to someone I don't know," she admitted.

"Really? You did this to a lot of unconscious patients at the hospital. Why is this different? Are you feeling butterflies in your stomach?"She teased.

"It's not as easy as you think. This is different."

"Just go on with it. Make sure to wipe his...everything properly," she said with a sly grin.

She sighed tiredly at Jane's teasing. Summoning her courage, she gently took off the blanket. Her eyes widened as she saw the stranger's chiseled muscles and abs. Just as she was about to undo his pants, a cold hand suddenly grabbed her hand.

She flinched, her heart racing. Jane's eyes widened in surprise. Summer turned to see the stranger's eyes weakly staring into hers. The touch of his hand sent shivers down her body.

Their eyes locked, and She felt a spark of electricity run through her body. The stranger's grip was firm, yet gentle. Her heart skipped a beat as she gazed into his piercing eyes, her mind reeling with a mix of surprise and confusion.