Williamsberg Virginia

A few hours later, the group returned from their shopping trip, their bags filled with supplies. Lunch had been eaten, final preparations had been made, and now it was time to leave New York.
They took off, heading south. Interstate 95 was an endless sea of brake lights, forcing them to inch their way forward. By the time they stopped for dinner, exhaustion had begun to creep in. When they finally arrived at their destination in Williamsburg, Virginia, it was just past 9 PM.
The estate was an imposing sight in the moonlight. A grand white mansion stood behind a tall stone fence, its iron gate silently opening as they approached. The driveway stretched long and winding, leading up to a sprawling garage. Beyond that, the property unfurled into a vast expanse of land, dark and quiet under the night sky. Inside, the house was a masterpiece of luxury—seven bedrooms, each with its own full bath, a gourmet kitchen, an indoor pool and whirlpool, a fully stocked exercise room, and countless other amenities.
As they stepped inside, Alyssa turned to face the group. "So, what does everyone think?"
Sung smirked. "It’s a bit small, but I think it’ll do." He cast a playful glance around the space. "Nice choice, Alyssa. I like what you’ve done here."
Sartre nodded in approval. "Plenty of room. Let’s go check out your new toys and workstation, Alyssa. I assume you picked up some new electronics for our bedroom? And you’re turning twenty-six this year. When’s your birthday?"
Alyssa gave a small smile. " My birthday is June 14th."I’m glad everyone likes it. If we need anything changed, let me know. We can do pretty much whatever we want with the place." She turned her attention to Max. "You’ll probably appreciate this—there’s an induction oven in the kitchen and some fancy coffee machine. Anyway, let’s take tonight to settle in and get acquainted with the house. It’s fully secured. Relax. I want this to feel like home."
Turning to Peter, she said, "Let’s go unpack. I’ll set up the electronics tomorrow."
Sung wandered through the house, his fingers lightly grazing the walls as he moved. Occasionally, he’d pause at a window, peering out into the darkened landscape before continuing his silent inspection. Eventually, he found his room, already set up for him. He stood at the window for a long moment, satisfied with what he saw. Then, without a word, he grabbed his sword and a small bag, stepping outside.
Under the moon’s glow, Sung moved methodically, checking the perimeter. At various points, he paused, subtly placing something at different spots around the property. His work was meticulous, deliberate.
Later that evening, as he was finishing up, a car pulled into the driveway. Intrigued, he returned to the house through the back door, stowed his gear away, and changed before heading downstairs to the living room.
Upstairs, Alyssa and Peter settled into their room, while Agent Powers and Ekaterina made their way to theirs.
Ekaterina, enjoying being spoiled, watched as Agent Powers carried all the bags. When they reached her room, she shut the door behind them and flashed a knowing smile. "You should stay here," she suggested, her voice smooth and persuasive.
At first, Max hesitated, but Ekaterina had a way of making her desires irresistible. With a small chuckle and a sigh, he relented. Together, they unpacked only what they needed, leaving the rest untouched—missions would call them away soon enough. They placed a few orders for personal necessities, ensuring that long-term supplies would be delivered to the estate in the coming days.
Once finished, they headed to the kitchen.
Agent Powers took charge, quickly assembling a spread—vegetable fried rice, teriyaki chicken, shrimp, and beef, letting each team member mix their own dish to their taste. The air filled with the rich aroma of sizzling meats and fragrant spices. Ekaterina, normally reserved, found herself enjoying the moment. Cooking with Max reminded her of simpler times, ones she had once shared with Dahlia.
Alyssa entered the kitchen, inhaling deeply. "That smells amazing," she said, leaning against the counter. "By the way, my father’s coming. He should be here soon."
Before they could respond, the intercom buzzed. The guard announced her father’s arrival.
Alyssa turned to leave. "Let me know when it’s ready, thanks."
She reached the front door just as the bell rang. Opening it, she found Matthew Wilson standing there. He looked exhausted, the weight of unseen burdens etched into his face, but otherwise intact.
"Nice place," he said, stepping inside.
"Thanks," she replied.
An awkward silence stretched between them. Time had changed her, and in many ways, they were now strangers.
"Let’s talk in the sun room," Alyssa suggested, leading him through the house. The sun room was bright even in the dim evening light, its walls of windows allowing the glow of the outdoor lamps to filter in. A gas fireplace sat to one side, and with a simple turn of a dial, flames flickered to life, casting warmth into the space. She closed the door behind them and gestured for him to sit.
"So…" she began, exhaling slowly.
Matt studied his daughter. "I talked to your mother. I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you."
Alyssa’s expression hardened. "Which mother? The one who disowned me or the one I’ve never met? Oh, wait—you mean Francis. The woman who is no longer my mother. That one."
She barely paused before continuing, her voice edged with years of unresolved pain. "And of course you weren’t around. You never are. I joined the Illuminati, and I still couldn’t reach you. For months. You knew what had happened, and you never called, never texted—nothing."
Matt sat in silence, letting the weight of her words settle between them.
"I was on a mission," he finally said. "I couldn’t contact you. But you’re right—I should have found a way."
Alyssa wasn’t ready to accept his apology. Not yet. "So, is it true? Was I adopted? Or half-adopted? Did you have an affair?"
Matt’s voice was steady. "Yes. I did. And Francis agreed to adopt you."
Alyssa scoffed. "Maybe we should just call her Francis from now on. What about my biological mother?"
"Her name is Sarah. She’s a scientist with the Illuminati. I haven’t spoken to her in years, but she’s still alive. She’s kept tabs on you."
Alyssa’s stomach twisted. "Where is she?"
"Florida."
"And what’s she like?"
"Brilliant. Dedicated to her work. Introverted."
Alyssa nodded slowly. "Did she ever want me?"
"It wasn’t that simple," Matt admitted. "The life of an agent—it’s not exactly the best environment for raising a child."
Alyssa sighed. "I get that. But you—where were you? Do you have any idea how it felt growing up thinking you didn’t want me?"
Matt shook his head. "No. But I made sure you were protected. I made sure the Illuminati knew about you, even before you joined. It was the only way I knew how to take care of you. It hasn’t turned out all bad, has it?"
He raised his brows slightly, waiting for her answer.