A Nun's Journey to Redemption

The makeup room was a quiet sanctuary amidst the chaos of the fashion industry. Maria sat before the mirror, staring at her reflection. Her eyes were heavy with exhaustion, and the sparkle that once defined her had dimmed. Her parents' sudden disappearance haunted her thoughts. Despite Vincent's assurances, a part of her refused to believe his words.

The knock on the door startled her. "Come in," she called, assuming it was one of the makeup artists.

Fredrick, the office boy, stepped inside. He was a shy man in his late twenties, known for keeping to himself. Maria raised an eyebrow, surprised by his unexpected visit.

"Fredrick? What is it?"

He hesitated, glancing over his shoulder as if ensuring they were alone. "Miss Maria," he began, his voice low, "I need to talk to you. It's important."

Maria leaned forward, curiosity piqued. "What's going on?"

Fredrick stepped closer, his voice barely above a whisper. "I know where your parents are."

---

The Truth Unveiled

Maria's heart raced as Fredrick spoke. "Mr. Vincent... he forced them to leave. They're in Texas now, in a small town near Houston. He made it clear they couldn't stay here anymore."

Her fists clenched. "I knew it. That lying—" She bit her lip, her anger simmering beneath the surface. "How do you know this?"

Fredrick hesitated, then sighed. "I overheard him talking to one of his men. He doesn't know I heard, and if he finds out, I'm as good as dead."

Maria's mind reeled. "Why are you telling me this?"

Fredrick met her gaze, his expression earnest. "Because it's wrong. You deserve to know the truth. And... because I want to help you."

---

The Plan

Maria paced the small room, her thoughts racing. "If Vincent finds out you're helping me, he'll come after you too. We need to be careful."

Fredrick nodded. "I've thought about that. The best way is to leave quietly. I can arrange a car to take you to the airport, but we have to be discreet. Vincent has eyes everywhere."

Maria sighed, running a hand through her hair. "It won't be easy. Vincent doesn't trust me, not after... everything. He'll notice if I try to leave."

Fredrick's expression was determined. "Then we'll make him think you're staying. We'll leave during your usual spa session. The car will be ready by then."

Maria's lips curved into a faint smile. "You've thought this through."

Fredrick shrugged. "I've seen what he does to people who cross him. I don't want that for you."

---

The Escape Begins

The next week passed in tense anticipation. Maria followed her routine meticulously, ensuring Vincent had no reason to suspect her. Fredrick worked quietly in the background, making arrangements for their escape.

On the appointed day, Maria arrived at the spa as usual. She pretended to relax under the skilled hands of the masseuse, but her mind was racing.

Fredrick waited outside, his heart pounding. The car he had arranged was parked nearby, the driver ready and waiting.

When Maria emerged from the spa, she gave a subtle nod to Fredrick. Together, they walked toward the car, their movements casual.

But just as they reached the vehicle, a voice called out behind them.

"Maria!"

---

The Chase

Maria turned to see one of Vincent's guards approaching, suspicion written across his face.

"Where are you going?" the guard demanded.

Maria's mind raced. "I'm going for a coffee run. Thought I'd get some fresh air."

The guard's eyes narrowed. "Does Mr. Vincent know about this?"

Fredrick stepped in, his voice calm. "It's my fault. I suggested it. She's been under a lot of stress, and I thought it might help."

The guard hesitated, then pulled out his phone. "I'm calling Mr. Vincent."

Fredrick acted quickly, stepping forward and grabbing the phone. "There's no need for that."

The guard shoved him back, drawing attention from passersby. Maria saw her chance and bolted toward the car.

"Get in!" she shouted to Fredrick, who scrambled after her.

---

Vincent's Response

Back at his office, Vincent was seething. The call from his guard had set him on edge, and now Maria was missing.

"She's with Fredrick," one of his men reported. "They left in a car. We're tracking it now."

Vincent's jaw tightened. "Find them. I don't care what it takes. Bring her back."

His mind raced with possibilities. Maria's defiance was unexpected, and it threatened to unravel his carefully constructed world.

---

On the Road

Maria and Fredrick drove in tense silence, the city lights fading behind them.

"Do you think they'll follow us?" Maria asked, glancing nervously in the rearview mirror.

Fredrick nodded grimly. "Vincent doesn't let people go easily. But we'll get you to the airport. Once you're on a plane, it'll be harder for him to reach you."

Maria's heart ached at the thought of leaving behind everything she'd built. But the image of her parents gave her strength. "Thank you, Fredrick. For everything."

He offered a small smile. "Just promise me you'll be safe."

---

To Be Continued

As the car sped down the highway, Maria felt a flicker of hope. For the first time in years, she was taking control of her life. The road ahead was uncertain, but she was determined to find her parents and start anew.

Behind her, Vincent's men were closing in, their determination matching her own. The escape had only just begun.