Chapter 3 - The Secret Game
Kneeling on the kitchen floor, Michael kept his voice incredibly soft, making sure not to make any sudden movements that would scare the trembling five-year-old.
"It's okay, Sophia," Michael whispered soothingly, keeping his body positioned to block Marcus and Elisa's view from the dining table. "Uncle Michael is right here. You can tell me the truth. I won't let anyone hurt you."
Sophia clutched her plush bunny so tightly her tiny knuckles turned white. Tears streamed down her face, her bottom lip quivering in absolute terror as she looked past Michael’s shoulder toward the dining table.
"Daddy said it’s a secret game..." Sophia whispered, her voice trembling and broken with fear. "And Mommy said I’m a liar if I tell anyone."
The words struck Michael like a physical blow to the chest.
A cold, lethal fury ignited in his veins, entirely replacing his sorrow. He looked closely at the bruises again, realizing they perfectly matched the size and shape of an adult man’s hand.
Marcus wasn't just ignoring her cries. Marcus was the one causing them. And Elisa was actively silencing her own daughter to protect her husband's corporate reputation.
Michael slowly stood up from the floor. He gently touched Sophia’s hair, his expression shifting from a heartbreaking sadness into an absolute, unwavering resolve.
"You didn't do anything wrong, little bird," Michael said in a steady, quiet whisper. "I promise I will protect you."
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He turned around, his dark eyes locking onto his brother sitting at the head of the dining table. The festive Christmas music playing in the background suddenly felt sickeningly hollow.
👉 Read Part 4 to see Michael confront the monster at the dinner table.
