Mr And Mrs

by Juey

Huey and Jazmine Freeman, a seemingly ordinary married couple living in suburbia, find their monotonous existence shattered when they discover that both are secretly undercover assassins.

1. Volume 1: Chapter 1: Discovery

AN: Another one from the vault! Old to me, new to you. Volume 1 will consist with only five chapters. It's was originally intended to be a prologue but it I felt it was too long to be a prologue so I had to split it into chapters. The main plot starts in Volume: 2.

Full Summary for Volume 1: Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, a seemingly ordinary married couple living in suburbia, find their monotonous existence shattered when they discover that both are secretly undercover assassins. As their hidden lives collide, they must navigate the complexities of their dual identities while confronting the dangers that come with their lethal profession.

Inspired by 2005 Mr. & Mrs Smith film & 2024 series.

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"So, Mr. and Mrs. Freeman, how did you two meet?" inquired the middle-aged marriage counselor, his tone warm and inviting.

A shared grin blossomed on their faces as they exchanged glances filled with nostalgia.

"Well... that was," Jazmine began, her gaze drifting shyly to the side.

"Quite unexpected," Huey interjected, a playful smile dancing on his lips as he gently rubbed his wife's knee in slow circles with his thumb. Jazmine shivered slightly at his touch, biting her lower lip in response.

"How so?" the counselor prompted, folding his hands attentively.

"Do you want to tell the story or should I?" Huey asked, looking at Jazmine, who responded with a light-hearted giggle and a shake of her head indicating 'no.'

"Alright then," he said, redirecting his focus back to the counselor. "Here's how it all happened," Huey continued, a broad grin illuminating his face.

Huey Freeman, a twenty-two-year-old man, found himself seated at a table laden with champagne and sparkling wine. He had never been fond of gatherings like this one. The wedding celebration felt trivial to him; however, it was his brother's engagement party, and he felt compelled to attend. Despite his reservations, he held no illusions about his brother's decision to settle down—he had long since accepted that this was not the path for him. In fact, he considered it a preferable alternative to incarceration.

Marriage was not something Huey envisioned for himself anytime soon. Throughout his dating history, none of the women he encountered inspired him to contemplate the idea of proposing. His relationships were fleeting at best; most rarely lasted beyond a month. To be candid, he recognized himself as a player—engaging with any woman he found attractive for a brief encounter before disappearing without a trace. While some were fortunate enough to share his bed on two occasions, regardless of their beauty or sophistication, Huey remained emotionally detached. Love seemed an impractical pursuit in light of the complexities that filled his life.

"This is stupid, " he muttered as he slanted in his seat. He yawns quietly and eventually shuts his eyes. He was about to take in a moment of relaxation.

Until,

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! "

A piercing, high-pitched voice erupted in joyous exclamation. He glanced upward to see Cindy sprinting in her seven-inch heels toward a stunning woman clad in red. "Babe, you made it!" Cindy exclaimed, enveloping her in a tight embrace.

"I couldn't possibly miss my best friend's engagement party," the beautiful woman replied smoothly. Her voice was both angelic and warm, radiating an inviting charm.

"I thought you were only coming to the wedding?" Cindy inquired.

Yes, I know, but I wanted to surprise you," she affirmed, planting a kiss on her cheek. "Aren't you happy to see me?" she inquired, placing her hands on her hips in a playful manner.

"Yaaas, bitch! Come on, let me introduce you to my friends," Cindy exclaimed, enthusiastically pulling the girl's arm and leading her toward Riley and her group of girlfriends.

Once Cindy had finished introducing the girl to nearly everyone at the party, she disappeared into the throng of guests. The girl felt awkward and lonely, nervously rubbing her arms as she scanned the crowd in search of Cindy. Panic began to set in; locating a pale blonde amidst the sea of faces in the bustling residence proved to be quite a challenge.

Meanwhile, Huey observed her with a sense of curiosity. He found himself captivated by her presence, perhaps due to her breathtaking beauty.

She was a vision of beauty and allure, standing at five feet five inches tall in a striking red sleeveless dress. The knee-length garment fit her like a glove, accentuating her hourglass figure with an air of sophistication.

Her strawberry blonde curls cascaded down her back in mesmerizing waves, framing her warm ivory complexion. The wide, round emerald eyes she possessed added to her captivating presence. When their gazes met, an electric connection sparked between them. He cast her an intimidating look, anticipating that she would shy away; however, to his astonishment, she held his gaze unwaveringly. As she drew nearer, he felt his heart race in response to the magnetic pull between them.

"Pardon me, sir, but have you seen where Cynthia went?" she inquired gently.

"No, ma'am, I haven't," he replied in a straightforward manner.

"Oh," she responded, biting her lip. "Okay... thank you," she added, settling into an awkward position in front of him. Huey nodded in acknowledgment. "I suppose I'll wait here until she finds me," she chuckled softly while twirling a curl around her finger.

They sat together in an uncomfortable silence until Huey cleared his throat. However, before he could utter a word, she interrupted him.

"I'm so sorry! Where are my manners?" she exclaimed. "I am Jazmine DuBois. And you are?" she inquired softly.

"Living life," Huey replied plainly.

Jazmine chuckled lightly. "And how is life?" she asked with a hint of amusement.

"Worth living," Huey responded succinctly.

"Worth living—very interesting," Jazmine mused, her gaze drifting toward the crowd of dancers. After a brief moment of silence, she continued, "And how do you know Cynthia?"

"She's engaged to my little brother," he stated simply.

"Oh my God! Riley! How could I have overlooked that? You two look so much alike!" Jazmine exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief at her own oversight.

"You don't say?" Huey remarked sarcastically as Jazmine continued her story.

"Cynthia and I met at summer camp when we were ten years old. Now, we're long-distance friends," she said, pouring him a glass of wine. "This is the second time we've seen each other face to face," she added, sliding the glass toward him.

"Good for you," he replied, taking a sip of his wine.

"Thank you," she responded, sipping her own drink, unfazed by the disinterest in his tone. "So, are you happy for your brother?" Jazmine inquired.

"Sure," Huey answered monotonously. "You spend a lot of money on a ring that you'll barely wear once the marriage hits the two-year mark."

"But-" Jazmine objected.

"Moreover, you invests several thousand dollars in an engagement party and a wedding celebration. Following this, prior to the wedding day, additional expenses are incurred for yet another festivity that marks the final moments of freedom. It is widely perceived that marriage serves as a woman's cunning strategy to confine a man. After spending a solitary night, perhaps even betraying your significant other, you ultimately marries the woman of your dreams—only to later realize that she was merely just a good fuck." He emphasized the word "fuck.".

Jazmine felt her thighs burning on the way he said the word Fuck. "You shouldn't let a single negative experience dictate your perspective on everything," she remarked.

"I never claimed to have had a bad experience. Honestly, marriage doesn't concern me at all," Huey replied, his tone dismissive. She scoffed, shaking her head in disbelief.

"To me, it's merely a label," he continued, taking a leisurely sip of his wine. "Have you ever been married?" he finally inquired, surprised by his own curiosity about her personal life.

"No," Jazmine responded, her voice tinged with melancholy. "But I did have a boyfriend once, and it didn't end well," she confessed.

"Well, that's his loss," Huey said smoothly, his gaze sweeping over her appreciatively as he offered an inviting smile. "C'est son perdu," he added in French, licking his lips suggestively.

Damn," she thought, her awareness sharpening as she caught his gaze lingering on her. "Yeah, he's lost," she murmured, biting down on her lower lip with a hint of frustration. She closed her eyes momentarily, grappling with the allure of temptation that tugged at her resolve.

Huey recognized the precariousness of his situation; provoking her could lead to trouble, yet he felt indifferent to the potential fallout. He was determined to enjoy himself. Leaning closer, he whispered in her ear, "You wanna go somewhere and... talk?" The words sent a shiver down her spine.

Expecting a sharp retort or perhaps even a slap, he was taken aback when she responded with a smile and took hold of his hand.

"Let's dance," she said, guiding him toward the pulsating rhythm of the dance floor.

"I don't dance," he protested half-heartedly as he pulled her body against his with sudden intensity. She gasped at the unexpected move but quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, a playful glint in her eyes. "Come on, show me a few moves," she urged seductively.

He leaned foward and whispered in her ear again "If you come with me, I will show you some moves", he whispered, sliding his hands on her ass, fondling her coarsely.

She breathed out a moan and shoved him away

" Watch and learn, she said, placing her hands above her head and swaying her hips side to side in a seductive rhythm. He observed her with hungry eyes. With her back facing him, she swirled her thin waist while keeping eye contact and begging him to touch her.

Her grin broadened as she felt his presence behind her. She grasped his hands and guided them towards her inner thighs. The thickness of her smooth thighs caused him to stiffen. Feeling naughty, she wanted him to touch her. She didn't know what had come over her. She maintained her swaying motion, dipping her body further and further, pressing her ass against him and rolling it around in circles.

As she continued dancing, tantalizing him, he breathed a sound of pleasure. She was enjoying the game she was playing so she thought, until she felt his fingers making their way to her breast.

Ten minutes later...

"Oh fuck!" Jazmine gasped, her lips trembling as her breath caught in her throat. Huey's thrusts from behind were relentless, his pace increasing with each passing moment. Her moans grew louder, echoing off the bathroom tiles as she clung to the sink counter for support. He fisted her hair, lifting her head upwards, and she felt a surge of pleasure mixed with pain.

As he slammed into her roughly, his hot breath danced across her ear, sending shivers down her spine. "Huey," he whispered harshly, his voice low and demanding. "That's my name, scream it." His words were like a spark to gasoline, igniting a fire within her. Her lips parted, and his name blurted from her lips, a husky whisper that only seemed to fuel his desire.

"I can't hear you," he growled, thrusting harder, his hips pounding against hers. The sound of their bodies colliding was like music, a rhythmic beat that seemed to match the pounding of her heart. "Huey!" she screamed, her voice rising above the din of their passion. The more she screamed, the deeper and faster he went, his thrusts becoming more savage, more primal.

As she cried out his name, it was like a dam had burst, unleashing a torrent of sound that echoed off the bathroom walls. "Huey!" she screamed again, her voice hoarse from shouting, her body trembling with pleasure. The sound of his name seemed to take on a life of its own, echoing through the bathroom, a cacophony of sound that was both intense and exhilarating.

"That's not how it went!" Jazmine screeched, rising dramatically from her seat. "You made it sound like it was so easy to get me!"

Huey replied calmly, "I didn't make it seem like anything. As a matter of fact, it was."

"That's a lie!" Jazmine shot back, her voice filled with indignation.

Huey leaned forward slightly, challenging her with his gaze. "So you're saying you didn't let me fuck you that same night?"

Jazmine glared at him, her breath coming in quick bursts. Her cheeks flushed crimson with embarrassment. She wanted nothing more than to slap the smirk off his face, but she refrained from doing so; after all, they were in front of the marriage counselor.

She settled back into her seat, arms crossed defiantly, a stubborn puff escaping her lips.

Huey let out a soft chuckle at her reaction. "Alright, I might have stretched the truth a little, but we did have sex that same night," he said, attempting to reassure her, though his words fell flat. In reality, he hadn't exaggerated; the events had unfolded just as he described.

"Would it help if I told you that I relived every moment and cherished that night in my mind countless times?" he continued, striving to maintain harmony with his wife's outburst. He knew all too well how quickly her emotions could spiral out of control, and he was not in the mood to navigate through that turmoil.

Jazmine felt a warm flush creep across her cheeks, instinctively raising her hand to shield the smile that threatened to break free. "May I continue now?" he inquired, his tone laced with anticipation.

In response, she gently nodding her head, signaling him to continue.

Turning his attention back to the counselor, he resumed, "Alright, as I was saying..."

The loud music blasting from the speakers was the only thing that masked the sounds of their intense encounter. As he finished, he attempted to reposition her, but she had other plans. With a surge of confidence, she pushed him down onto the toilet seat and straddled him, her eyes locked on his. "My turn," she whispered, her breath hot against his skin.

Huey exhaled deeply as she took control, his dick still rock hard with desire. She began to move slowly, teasing him with gentle strokes, her wetness enveloping him. But as she gained momentum, her pace quickened, and her movements became more frantic. He reached up, grabbing her breast and pinching her nipple hard, his eyes locked on hers. "Jazmine," he groaned, his voice laced with desperation.

A devilish smile spread across her face as she rode him harder, her breasts bouncing with each stroke. Sweat beads rolled down her smooth skin, glistening in the dim light. Huey's mouth closed around her left nipple, his tongue sucking it in, relishing her flesh. Her lips parted, and she gasped, her husky breaths filling the air.

As she panted, her body tightened around him, and he felt himself losing control. His pride urged him to take over, to regain dominance, but for the first time, he was stuck in submission. She had complete control over his body, and despite his initial reluctance, he couldn't deny the intense pleasure it brought him. He moaned her name, his voice gruff with desire, his head screaming at him to reclaim control.

But Jazmine was relentless, riding him wildly until he reached his climax. And as he did, she followed, her body shuddering with release. They both collapsed, breathing heavily, her head clasped against his chest. The music still pulsed around them, but in that moment, it was the only sound that mattered.

"Huey," she said, gasping for breath.

"Yes," he said, at a loss for breath.

"What's your last name?"she randomly asked.

"Freeman," he replied with a grin.

"I like it, has a nice ring to it,"she said, reaching for the handle to lift herself up. He helped her stand, getting up on his own. " Thanks, " she said, adjusting her dress. She walked over to the mirror to fix her messy hair. He walked over to her and zipped the back of her dress. " You're welcome, " he said, fixing his own attire. He looked up at the mirror, his stare went to her reflection. She smiled bashfully and lowered her eyes to avoid contact. He recalled to himself how could she act shy after the wilderness she had done. She was a professional a few minutes ago, and all of a sudden, she's timid?

She was quiet as she applied her lipstick again. Huey cleared his throat to gain her attention. "Jazmine," he said, he couldn't believe that he remembered her name. She looked at him from the mirror and smiled.

Her smile was so beautiful, wait, why did he think that? He thought.

"Yes?"she said, batting her eyelashes.

"...," he didn't know what to say, he was silent. All the times he had sex with random women, afterwards, he would tell them to go away. For some reason, he didn't want her to leave. He really wanted her to stay.

But he couldn't tell her that.

Jazmine turned and faced him. She laid her hand on his chest and touched on his suit tie. "It was nice meeting you, Huey Freeman" she said, blushing, looking at him anxiously. She rose on her toes and kissed him on the cheek.

"Thanks for a good time," she enveloped her hands around his neck. They look deeply into each other's eyes. She secretly wanted him to say something, anything that would let her know he wanted to see her again.

"Likewise" was all he said.

She sighed in disappointment, withdrawing her arms from his neck.

"See you around Freeman" she said, walking away.

"DuBois,"He whispered, watching her leave, licking his lips at the sway in her walk. Moments later, he searched for her, but she was nowhere to be found. He didn't know why, but he felt this knot in his abdomen when he realized she had left the party. A few days after, he still thought of her. He wanted to ask Cindy about her, only his pride wouldn't let him, besides, she didn't ask about him either.

Maybe, just maybe, she didn't care.

Deep down, he was looking forward to seeing her again.

"You thought about me?" Jazmine asked, perched comfortably on his lap. Huey looked up at her, letting out a deep sigh. "Aw, baby," she cooed, planting soft kisses across his face. "I thought of you too," she confessed with a playful smile.

"Jazmine, not now!" he replied, irritation creeping into his voice.

"Baby, tell him about the time we met up again," she urged, gazing up at him as she nestled her head against his chest.

"I was getting to that before you interrupted—"

"Ooh! Ooh! Can I tell the rest?" she pleaded eagerly, bouncing slightly on his lap like an excited child.

Huey sighed in resignation. "Sure, why not."

"Yay!" Jazmine cheered, happily returning to her seat.

Huey rolled his eyes at his wife's seemingly childish behavior.

"Where to begin?" she asked the counselor, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

The counselor chuckled softly, a warm smile on his face. "The beginning would be nice," he replied, encouraging her to share.

"But he already told the beginning," Jazmine said, her brow furrowing in confusion.

Huey pinched the bridge of his nose in irritation, trying to maintain his composure. "Jazmine, he wants to know the whole story of how we re-encountered," he explained slowly, emphasizing each word for clarity.

"Ooh," Jazmine responded, a hint of realization dawning on her. "Okay," she said as she crossed one leg over the other, settling into a more comfortable position. "So it all started in Mexico..."

"What color was his shirt again?" Jazmine inquired through her earpiece.

"The wrinkled red one."

"Are you referring to the bald man sitting with a group of kids?" Jazmine asked, her brow furrowing in concentration.

"Yeah, that's him. Fetch him, tiger."

"I'll make you proud," Jazmine replied, hanging up the call. With an air of innocence, she flipped her straightened hair to the side as she confidently walked towards the man.

As she approached, two guards suddenly grabbed her by the arms. "No trespassing," one of the guards stated in a thick accent.

"Hello, I'm here to speak with Carlos Ramirez about the modeling audition," she said, holding up her audition flyer for them to see.

The guard snatched the paper from her grasp and scrutinized it. "Your ID?" he demanded brusquely.

With an optimistic tone, she said, 'here it is!'

He snatched that as well and looked at her fake ID suspicious.

Jazmine smiled at him widely, showing off the slight dimples on her cheeks.

"How old are you?" he questioned.

"Um.. 17," She said, swaying her body with her hands behind her back. He looked at her from every angle.

'Hmm,' he said, undressing her with his eyes.

"You don't look like 17, not with a body like this, " he said with a nervous laugh. She had an innocent face to pull off the teenage look, but her body was all woman.

"Puberty is totally weird, "she says with a shrug.

He licked his lips and inquired, 'Are you a virgin?'

Jazmine squinted. "Why does it matter? I mean.. Isn't this.. A modeling agency? "She asked.

The man roared with laughter. "Sure it is, " he said, stepping aside for her to walk. She gulped hard and walked towards the bald man who was flirting with the waitress.

'I have another slut for you,' the man said in Spanish. unbeknownst to the men, Jazmine was efficient in Spanish, so she understood every word.

"Um.. Hi, my name is Emily Thorne. I'm from Pennsylvania," she said nervously.

Carlos licks his lips. 'Hmm, Pennsylvania, eh? ' He said. 'American pussy is a lot of money,' he said, in Spanish, making his bodyguard laugh.

"Sir, it's on the house," said the waitress, as she gave him a glass of wine.

"Thank you, beautiful," His eyes turned towards Jazmine while sipping his drink. He took another sip of the drink and said, 'Mm, this must be something new Please have a seat, " he said, tapping the space next to him.

Jazmine tucked her hair behind her ears while sitting next to him. "So, young American Girl, how far are you prepared to go to show your potential? "He asked, placing his hand over her knee.

"I am prepared to do whatever is necessary, "she said with confidence.

"Well, today is your lucky day,' he said with a big smile.

"Wait, I've been hired just like that?" Jazmine exclaimed, a look of feigned shock on her face. He nodded in response. "But I haven't auditioned," she added, her brow furrowing in confusion.

"Take a look around. Is there anyone else here to audition?" he asked, gesturing broadly to the empty space around them. Jazmine examined her surroundings and shook her head.

"No," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Do you have any idea why?" he pressed further.

"Because no one came?" she ventured hesitantly.

"Well, yeah," he laughed lightly. "But also because the man upstairs told me that an angel from America would be a perfect choice," he said, his fingers brushing through her hair in an oddly intimate gesture.

Lame! Jazmine thought to herself, yet she couldn't help but smile and giggle at the absurdity of it all. Just then, a realization struck her; she stopped abruptly and gasped. "Oh no! I forgot my portfolio at the airport!" she exclaimed dramatically, pretending to rummage through her backpack as if searching for something crucial.

"No worries," Carlos reassured her with a confident grin. "We can take plenty of photographs in my studio." He squeezed her thigh gently and leaned closer to whisper in her ear, "But first, you must show me all your potential."

"O... Kay," she stammered, shifting uncomfortably under his gaze.

Carlos laughed and removed his hand, he finished his cup and snapped his fingers at the waitress. He placed the tip on the table, stood up, and signaled to Jazmine to stand with him. 'Come with me,' he said, taking her arms.

'"Police!" A familiar voice rang out, causing both Jazmine and Carlos to widen their eyes in surprise. Jazmine's mind raced as she recognized the voice. She turned to see a strikingly handsome figure clad in a police uniform. Wait, is he an officer?

"Huey," she whispered in astonishment, her heart racing at the unexpected reunion. She had never imagined she would see him again. Their eyes locked for a brief moment before he approached her, but a bodyguard stepped in front of them, asserting, "No trespassing."

Huey calmly displayed his badge, prompting the bodyguard to retreat.

"Officer, what seems to be the problem?" Carlos asked with an air of confidence.

"This young lady," Huey said, gesturing toward Jazmine. "Her family has been searching everywhere for her. She is not well—she is sick in her head," he added in impeccable Spanish.

"What?" Jazmine exclaimed, confusion washing over her. She stepped closer to Huey and whispered urgently, "What are you doing here?"

In response, Huey remained silent; instead, he maneuvered her arm behind her back and began to apply handcuffs.

"What are you doing?" she yelled in protest.

"Miss, please remain calm. Don't make this any harder than it needs to be," he replied firmly. Frustrated by his actions, Jazmine struggled against him but found herself unable to break free.

"But I did nothing wrong!" she objected, her voice rising in indignation.

Huey turned to Carlos, his expression hardening as he asked, "Do you have any more questions, sir?" The tone of his voice was laced with an underlying threat.

Carlos instinctively raised his hands in a gesture of defense. "We don't want any problems, officer. We'll be on our way," he replied, signaling to his bodyguard to follow him.

Jazmine gasped as the realization struck her that her target was attempting to flee. "Huey, let me go!" she demanded urgently.

"Shh!" Huey whispered, pulling her into a secluded corner. He looked into her eyes and asked gently, "Are you alright?" His hands rested on her shoulders, and the warmth of his touch sent a shudder through her; it was a sensation she had long missed.

"I will be if you let me go!" she insisted vehemently.

With a soft sigh, he uncuffed her wrists. "Feel better?" he inquired softly, his voice now devoid of the earlier tension.

"Much better," she remarked, her tone laced with attitude. As he raised an eyebrow in response, the vibration of his phone caught her attention.

"Are you going to answer that?" she inquired.

He brushed off her question, scanning their surroundings with a keen eye before abruptly pulling her arm. "Come on," he urged, urgency evident in his voice.

She sprinted alongside him, curiosity bubbling over as she asked, "Where are we headed?" and "Why are we running?"

"You ask an awful lot of questions," he replied, his focus unwavering as he plotted their next move.

"Wait, who kept calling you?" Jazmine questioned, her gaze fixed intently on her husband.

Huey offered a slight smirk, which only fueled her frustration.

"Do I need to slap that smirk off your face, or are you going to tell me what's going on?" Jazmine's tone was serious, cutting through the tension in the room.

"Calm down, dear. You're making a scene," he replied, his nonchalance igniting her anger further.

She let out an exasperated sound of disgust. "How dare you?"

"You see what I have to deal with?" Huey shot back at the counselor present, who merely shrugged his shoulders in response.

"Oh, so you're only with me because you're tolerating me?" Jazmine's voice trembled with hurt.

Huey raised his voice in protest. "I didn't say that!"

"You said 'deal with me,'" she yelled, punctuating her words by punching the armrest of the chair beside her.

"No! I said 'deal with this,' referring to your mood swings!" He shouted back, raising his hands to rub his temples—a gesture he often resorted to when feeling annoyed.

"I would appreciate it if you didn't yell at me!" Jazmine exclaimed, her voice rising in pitch.

"You were the one who yelled at me first!" Huey retorted, his tone defensive.

Frustrated, Jazmine screamed and stormed out of the room, her footsteps echoing down the hallway.

The counselor's expression shifted to one of concern as he observed Huey, who remained unfazed, reclining comfortably in his chair as if nothing had happened.

"Don't you think you should go after her?" the counselor suggested gently.

Huey shrugged nonchalantly, stretching his arms above his head. "No, I don't have time for that," he replied dismissively. "She'll be back in five... four... three... two..."

True to his prediction, within moments, Jazmine burst back into the room. Her eyes were red and puffy from tears, yet her anger was palpable. She furrowed her brow and deliberately moved her chair away from Huey before sitting down with her arms crossed tightly over her chest, turning her body away from him.

"Are you okay, Jazmine?" the counselor asked with genuine concern in his voice.

"Mm hmm," she replied, her tone noncommittal.

"Would you like to continue?" he asked, his voice steady.

"Humph!" she huffed, turning her gaze away defiantly.

"Since my wife seems intent on being upset for no discernible reason, I'll carry on," Jazmine muttered something under her breath.

"Whatever," he retorted. "Anyway, Dr. Smith, let me explain how this all came about."

Huey donned an undercover police uniform, his communication facilitated by a discreet earpiece nestled in his ear. "Human trafficker Carlos Ramirez, a forty-year-old male wearing a red shirt, bald with a grayish beard—can you confirm?" he relayed, his voice steady as he awaited the response from his team.

"Target confirmed. Must terminate immediately," came the terse reply.

Huey's gaze shifted to the lounge area where he spotted a bald man clad in a red shirt, leisurely smoking a cigar.

"Target found," Huey affirmed. Carlos Ramirez was not just any criminal; he was a notorious figure in the realm of human trafficking. This high-profile sexual trafficker had built a sinister reputation for abducting children as young as six years old and teenagers from various countries. He would then sell these innocent victims to affluent pedophiles and black market pornographers, perpetuating an abhorrent cycle of exploitation and abuse.

Huey had been assigned the task of assassinating Carlos, a mission he was eager to complete. The execution was imminent, with only a few minutes remaining before he would carry out the kill. His partner in this operation was an attractive woman who had taken on the guise of a waitress. At that moment, Carlos was engrossed in flirtation with another patron, blissfully unaware of the danger that lurked just moments away. The glass of wine he was about to receive contained a lethal poison designed to induce a heart attack within ten minutes.

As Huey checked his timer, he heard a voice that struck him as familiar—soft and angelic. "Wait, I know that voice," he thought to himself.

He looked up and caught sight of a girl with long, straight strawberry-blonde hair dressed in a white tank top and a pink fluffy skirt. Her back was turned to him, obscuring her face from view; however, her body language betrayed her nervousness. Observing her closely, Huey realized she remained oblivious to Carlos's true intentions. This realization struck him hard: Carlos ensnared young women by masquerading as a modeling agent, filling their heads with dreams of fame and success while leading them into a dark reality of exploitation and sexual slavery.

Huey hesitated, torn between the urge to intervene and the necessity of strategic thinking. Time was slipping away—only five minutes remained until Carlos would meet his grim fate. As he raised his gaze, he finally caught sight of her face, those eyes that had haunted him for so long.

His pupils dilated in shock.

"Jazmine?" he murmured under his breath. "What in the hell is she doing here?" He watched intently as she interacted with Carlos, a surge of jealousy coursing through him when he noticed Carlos's hand resting on her thigh, their faces alarmingly close. A tingling sensation spread through his body, igniting a fire within him.

"What the fuck?" he cursed silently, feeling a heat rise in his chest. The internal struggle became unbearable; he could no longer remain passive. With determination fueling his movements, he sprinted toward them just as they were preparing to leave.

"Police!" he shouted, his voice echoing with urgency.

"Can we skip this part?" Jazmine said, her annoyance evident as she realized he was retelling the same story she had already shared.

"Is it possible for you to stop interrupting me?" Huey hissed, irritation creeping into his voice.

"Maybe I wouldn't if you would just get to the damn point!" Jazmine snapped back, her frustration boiling over.

"Maybe I would if you'd just shut the hell up for once!" Huey retorted sharply.

"You shut up!" Jazmine yelled, her voice rising in anger.

"No, you shut up!" he shouted in response.

"No, you—"

"Mrs. Freeman, please," the counselor interjected, stepping in to diffuse the escalating tension. "Will you allow him to continue?" he asked earnestly. "Please," he pleaded with a sense of urgency.

Jazmine exhaled deeply and crossed her arms defiantly. "Fine," she relented, releasing a heavy sigh.

Huey closed his eyes momentarily and murmured, "Thank you, Jesus."

Jazmine scowled and rolled her eyes. "Can he at least start where I left off?"

"Sure, he can, as long as she doesn't interrupt him again," Huey replied, prompting another eye roll from her.

"Fine!" Jazmine shouted, emphasizing her frustration by stomping her foot.

"And if this is one of your tricks to provoke another argument with me, I'm not falling for it," he said in a serious tone.

In response, she gave him the finger.

"Classic Jazmine," he remarked nonchalantly.

"Asshole," she retorted.

He shot her a warning look before turning back to the counselor. With a deep sigh, he clapped his hands together. "Okay, where was I?"

"Come on," he urged, urgency evident in his voice.

She sprinted alongside him, curiosity bubbling over as she asked,

"Where are we headed?" and "Why are we running?"

"You ask an awful lot of questions," he replied, his, pressing the elevator button.

"Wait, what about... "Jazmine said, but was interrupted when a woman screamed hysterically.

Huey and Jazmine stopped to see a crowd surrounding a unconscious man, Carlos.

Huey heard Jazmine gasp as the elevator door opened. Without hesitation, he pulled her inside and passionately kissed her. Jazmine was taken aback, but she couldn't resist. She also missed his lips.

His cold tongue came into her warm mouth as his hands travelled down to her round ass. The kiss was hungry and desperate. The two of them were breathing through the kisses. As she melted in his arms, she let out a moan, and flashbacks of them fucking in the bathroom at Riley's engagement party came back to him. He was so tempted that he wanted to take her immediately, but she refused him, which brought both parties back to reality.

"Okay, that's enough," Jazmine said, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson.

Huey, who had just arrived on Earth, nodded in understanding and gently took her hand. "C'mon," he urged, leading her toward safety.

Later that evening, Huey found himself lying naked in an expansive bed with the woman of his dreams nestled against his chest. After the tumultuous day he had put her through, he felt it was only right to treat her to a proper date. They enjoyed a delightful dinner together, where they caught up on each other's lives. Their conversation was brief but meaningful; Huey found it difficult to tear his gaze away from Jazmine. True to her spirited nature, she invited him to dance, and once again the atmosphere grew charged on the dance floor. The chemistry between them was palpable; they couldn't keep their hands off each other, prompting the staff to kindly ask them to leave. They retreated to a hotel where, for the first time in what felt like ages, Huey made love.

Huey gazed up at the ceiling, feeling the warmth of Jazmine's body against his own as she lay on his chest, clad only in her birthday suit. The intimacy they shared this time felt different—more passionate and deeply connected. He caressed her tender skin, savoring the moment as she snored gently in his embrace.

"How are you?" he heard her voice murmur softly, pulling him from his reverie. Lowering his gaze, he met her wide, bright eyes that sparkled with life and beauty. She was undeniably gorgeous.

"I'm cool," he replied, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. A soft giggle escaped her lips as she nestled closer to him. Concern flickered through him, prompting him to ask, "Are you all right?"

"Yeah, Freeman," she answered softly. A long silence enveloped them, broken only by the rhythmic sound of rain pounding against the window. Huey returned his gaze to the ceiling, lost in thought once more. He sensed Jazmine's sigh beside him and knew she too was caught up in contemplation.

He questioned whether she felt the same way. During dinner they never once asked one another, why they both ended up in San Luis Potosi. He didn't know her reasons for not asking but he was relieved that she didn't ask him. He wanted so badly to ask her what was she dressed as a teenager confronting someone as dangerous as Carlos Ramirez. But he knew if he starts asking questions, it would only mean he would have to answer to her and he didn't want that.

So instead, They spoke with actions, holding each other and listening to the rain. Since when it rained in Mexico ? he thought to himself but then again,

When did you come across the same woman two times? With this thought, he knew she was the woman he would spend the rest of his life with.

"Awe, Huey," Jazmine said, tears streaming down her cheeks. Huey tenderly wiped away her tears with his hands and pressed a gentle kiss to her lips. The kiss deepened into a passionate exchange, filled with emotion and connection. Dr. Smith observed the scene with a grin on his face as he jotted notes in his notebook. However, as he continued to write, he became acutely aware that the couple might be on the verge of becoming intimate in front of him.

Clearing his throat loudly, Mr. Smith attempted to regain their attention. "Ahem," he pronounced again, this time with enough volume to interrupt their moment.

"My apologies, Dr. Smith," Huey said, pulling back slightly while still holding Jazmine's hand. Jazmine's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red when Huey kissed her hand softly. "We apologize for our behavior," she added politely. "We can sometimes get a bit carried away."

Her face flushed a deep crimson, reminiscent of a ripe tomato, while Huey wore a satisfied smile that spoke volumes. Dr. Smith, observing the dynamic between them, nodded with amusement and said, "OK." He allowed a moment for them to collect their thoughts before directing his gaze toward Huey. "So, Huey, what was it that made you want to marry Jazmine?"

Huey reflected for a moment before responding, "I knew she was the one from the very first time I encountered her, but that particular night held a significance all its own."

Dr. Smith leaned in with curiosity. "How so?" he inquired.

"I felt an undeniable connection with her—one that I hadn't experienced with any other woman in quite some time. The instinct to protect her surged within me; I wanted nothing more than to keep her close and ensure she would never slip away again. It wasn't long after that realization that I asked her to marry me," Huey explained earnestly.

Jazmine interjected, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "It truly was the most magical moment of my life."

Huey nodded in agreement, adding, "Yes, it was indeed magical, honey."

However, Dr. Smith's tone shifted slightly as he posed a challenge: "Yet, like many marriages, yours didn't quite meet your expectations."

Huey sighed and conceded, "That's true—but it unfolded in its own special way."

Together they inhaled deeply as they began to reflect on how secrets had irrevocably altered their marriage forever.

---

Huey paused as he approached the garage of his charming five-bedroom home. His beloved, Jazmine Freeman, had been his wife for four years now. The initial two years of their marriage were filled with unparalleled joy and adventure. Their intimate life was vibrant and exhilarating, characterized by a series of new and thrilling experiences that deepened their connection. The chemistry they shared blossomed into something extraordinary, fostering an intimacy that brought them closer than ever.

However, that was two years ago.

"Honey, I'm home!" Huey called out as he returned his coat to its designated spot in the closet. He strolled into the dining room and immediately noticed Jazmine perched precariously atop a chair, her 7-inch high heels teetering dangerously. How on earth does she maintain such balance in those heels? He watched intently as she hung up her new sheer curtains, her movements both graceful and deliberate.

Just as she was finishing up, the chair began to wobble ominously beneath her. It looked as though she might lose her balance and fall.

"Jazz, be careful!" he exclaimed mid-sentence, his voice laced with concern. To his astonishment, Jazmine leaned back against the chair's top rail, using her heel for support, and gracefully lowered herself down from the precarious height. Huey let out a sigh of relief as she landed safely on the ground. Shaking his head in disbelief, he thought to himself that this woman was full of surprises.

"Oh, hey baby! You finally made it home," she exclaimed, her voice bright with excitement as she rushed toward him. She planted a quick kiss on his lips, a fleeting connection that sparked warmth in his chest.

"Hey," he replied softly, his fingers gently brushing against her cheek. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she playfully loosened his tie, the gesture both intimate and familiar.

"You should get cleaned up; dinner is almost ready," she said, turning to walk away. He couldn't help but notice the way she moved—her hips swaying gracefully with each step. The fitted skirt she wore accentuated her curves, making her figure appear even more alluring. An urge stirred within him to follow her upstairs and reclaim the passion they once shared, but he quickly dismissed the thought as futile.

As he stood under the warm spray of the shower, memories flooded back of how wonderful it felt to come home after a long day at work. Jazmine would often surprise him with enticing lingerie, igniting a spark that would lead them to their bedroom for passionate encounters. They would even indulge in steamy moments together in the shower before transitioning to cooking side by side, sharing meals filled with laughter and watching their favorite films together.

Yet lately, intimacy had become a distant memory. He struggled to recall the last time they had been together in bed; it felt like an eternity ago. The demands of his lengthy work hours clashed with Jazmine's dwindling sexual desire, creating an insurmountable barrier between them. Deep down, he understood that this disconnect wouldn't resolve itself anytime soon.

"Dinner is ready!" Jazmine announced from the kitchen, her voice bright with enthusiasm. Huey settled himself at the long, unadorned table and poured a glass of wine, the deep red liquid swirling as he lifted the bottle. He glanced up just in time to see Jazmine approaching, her hands carefully cradling a plate of food.

"I made your favorite, my love," she said cheerfully as she placed the dish before him.

"Yes, my favorite—roasted mullet," he replied flatly. As he inspected his meal, disappointment washed over him; the fish was overcooked, its once-flaky texture now dry and uninviting. The accompanying cannellini beans and rice were both too watery and devoid of flavor, a stark contrast to what he had hoped for. He managed a weak smile, knowing that her culinary skills left much to be desired. Despite this reality, he couldn't bring himself to hurt her feelings.

Jazmine beamed at him as she took her seat across from him at the lengthy table—a piece of furniture that seemed to symbolize the distance growing between them in their marriage.

With a heavy heart, Huey took a large bite of the fish and immediately felt a wave of nausea wash over him. Yet, his beloved wife watched eagerly for his reaction. "Mm-Mm!" he exclaimed, forcing enthusiasm into his voice. "Wow honey, you have really outdone yourself this time." He took a sip of wine to wash down the dryness that clung stubbornly to his palate.

Jazmine felt a warm flush of flattery wash over her at his compliment, prompting her to lift her wine glass and take a delicate sip. "Why, thank you, my love," she replied with a soft smile. "So..." she continued, her voice trailing off as she sought to steer the conversation into more engaging territory.

"How are things at the firm?" Jazmine inquired while deftly slicing through her fish, hoping to elicit a more substantial response.

"It was the usual," he replied with a hint of resignation. "We got a new coffee maker." He struggled momentarily to find something more stimulating to discuss, aware that this topic might not hold her interest for long.

"Oh! That's exciting!" she exclaimed in an upbeat tone, attempting to inject enthusiasm into the mundane revelation.

However, the atmosphere grew heavy with silence, punctuated only by the sound of a fork clinking against the plate as they both momentarily lost themselves in thought.

"So how are things at work?" he asked, breaking the silence and trying once again to engage her in conversation.

"Not much," she replied, her voice casual. "Just the usual routine, but we've been getting a lot of clients lately."

He smiled warmly at her. "That's wonderful, honey," he responded, his tone encouraging.

"Thank you, my love," she said, continuing to savor her dinner.

The silence enveloped the room once more, but this time it lingered longer than before. Describing his dinner as boring would have been an understatement; it felt like a slow torture. What had led their marriage to this point of stagnation?

Just when he thought the evening couldn't drag on any further, he was jolted by the vibration of his phone in his pocket. Jazmine looked at him with an expression that was difficult for him to interpret. He offered her an apologetic glance before excusing himself from the table.

As he glanced at his screen, he saw it was a message from his partner.

Irene

"Irene, this better be important," Huey said, his voice low and tense.

"Freeman, I apologize for interrupting your evening, but we have a new target," Irene replied, her tone urgent yet composed.

"I'm listening," Huey responded, leaning in closer to the phone.

"The target is Daniel Thoroughbred," Irene stated firmly. "The operation will take place at one of New York's most exquisite restaurants, Le Bernardin."

"Wait, tonight?" he asked quietly, careful to keep his voice down so his wife wouldn't overhear.

"Yes. We have 16 hours to complete the job," Irene informed him succinctly.

"I'll be there by then," he assured her before ending the call. Turning around, he noticed Jazmine had been standing there all along.

"Jazmine, I—" he began to explain himself.

"Working late again?" she asked with her arms crossed, her expression a mix of disappointment and concern.

"I'm so sorry, Jazmine," he said softly as he reached out to rub her shoulders gently.

Jazmine shook her head and delicately removed his hands from her shoulders. "It's fine," was all she said before turning away and walking off.

He always changed in the garage to avoid drawing attention. After planting a quick kiss on her cheek as a goodbye gesture, he slipped out into the night.

"I will do my best to be back as soon as possible," he promised. Jazmine nodded, her lips brushing against his in a gentle goodnight kiss. As she turned to clear the plates from the table and into the kitchen, he couldn't help but notice the disappointment etched on her face. It pierced his heart to witness her sadness; he hated letting her down. The urge to rush to her side and mend her broken spirit surged within him, yet duty called, and he had a mission to fulfill.

He dashed into his garage, where a secure door awaited him—one that required facial recognition for entry. As the door slid open, it revealed an array of weapons and tactical equipment meticulously organized within. He swiftly packed his firearm travel bag, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. Beneath the tailored fabric of his royal blue suit lay a bulletproof vest, a secret he felt ashamed to keep from Jazmine. Although he despised lying to her, the thought of revealing his true identity as an assassin was unbearable.

As he drove away, a heavy weight settled in his chest. She could never know the truth, he thought. Jazmine was a devoted housewife, her days filled with the rhythm of domesticity. Though she worked part-time as an interior decorator, most of her time was dedicated to cooking and cleaning at home. How could he possibly explain his lifestyle to her? The very thought sent chills down his spine; she would see him as a monster and would likely leave him without a second thought.

He loved her too much to risk losing her.

After what felt like an eternity on the road, he finally arrived at Le Bernardin.

"Aaron McKenzie," Huey said, presenting his forged identification along with the invitation. Beside him stood Irene, a tall and striking African American woman who was playing the role of his wife. "Catherine McKenzie," she stated confidently as she handed over her RSVP and false identity card to the hostess.

"Welcome, sir, madam. Le Bernardin," the hostess greeted them warmly as she led them inside.

---

Irene

Jazmine repeated the name of the woman in her head as she remembered hearing her husband mention it. She suspected that the woman who took her husband away was his mistress. Her thoughts returned to herself, and she felt a burning sensation in her chest. Although she doesn't want to imagine him with another woman, that's the only explanation she could come up with.

It wasn't something she imagined overnight. She had been investigating her intuition for months. With Huey working late every night and coming home in the morning smelling like women's perfume. She ultimately came to the realization that he was having an affair. She didn't mention it to him because she didn't have any evidence. She didn't even know that his mistress had a name until she heard it for the first time.

"Wait, Tonight? "

She heard him whisper, but she also understood him loud and clear. He must have sensed her approach because he said, "I'll be there before then," before hastily ending the call. Startled, he turned to face her; she had clearly caught him off guard.

"Jazmine, I—" he began, his expression marred by a familiar look of guilt.

"Working late again?" Jazmine interjected. She was not in the mood for an apology tonight. She anticipated his next words, knowing they would follow a predictable pattern.

"I'm sorry, Jazmine," he said, rubbing her small shoulders with an air of concern. His voice was laced with worry, yet she found herself unable to grasp the depth of his thoughts. Jazmine scrutinized his facial expressions in an attempt to decipher what lay beneath the surface. She shook her head slightly, conveying a sense of hopelessness.

"It's fine," she lied. It was far from fine—nothing about this situation felt right at all. Stepping aside, she felt her emotions rising within her and struggled to keep them contained. As she made her way out, she leaned in for one final kiss, unable to bear the sight of him any longer.

Their spark has lost its intensity. All she can do is blame herself. She was terrible at cooking and she didn't give him sex. She wasn't opposed to having sex with him. She just missed the spicy sessions she shared with her husband. The scandalous things they attempted, how wild they were in bed. Nonetheless, she is not convinced that it is entirely her fault. Due to his excessive time spent at "work", he comes home late and lacks the same energy as before.

Before, he was romantic and took his time with her, but now he only wants a quick fuck and then leave. She didn't feel the connection anymore. He seemed distracted all the time. She never brought it up, but she wanted more.

She watched as her husband drove off to Irene. If only she were able to obtain additional information about this woman, if only she was given her full name. The sound DING! coming from her cell phone interrupted her thoughts.

After unlocking her phone, she clicked on the screen to reveal a text message from her boss.

Subject: Liam Bentley

Location: Le Bernardin, New York City.

Time remaining: at the end of the day.

Jazmine let out a deep sigh as she scrutinized her reflection in the mirror. The entirety of her outfit was crafted from sleek latex, accentuating her figure with an alluring yet intimidating presence. She wore a form-fitting black leotard dress that clung to her curves, complemented by matching long gloves that extended past her elbows and thigh-high heeled boots that added both height and an edge to her appearance. Around her neck, a choker sat snugly, adding a touch of boldness to her ensemble, while her hair was meticulously styled into a neat bun, exuding an air of sophistication.

Her mission weighed heavily on her mind: seducing Liam Bentley, a corrupt judge notorious for liberating rapists and murderers from incarceration. The gravity of her objective—to eliminate him—was not lost on her. As she carefully applied a coat of red lipstick, she felt a pang of hypocrisy gnawing at her conscience. Here she was, condemning her husband for his clandestine affair while concealing the most significant secret of all.

He could never find out, she reminded herself resolutely. There was no way in hell she would allow herself to lose him.

---

Huey and Irene slowly danced towards Fred Thoroughbred who was dancing with his wife on the ballroom floor.

'That's our target,' Irene whispered over his shoulder.

'Follow my lead' was all Huey said as he performed a tango dance with Irene. He doesn't like to dance, but Jazmine insists that they take dance classes for their wedding.

Despite not being as good as Jazmine, Irene managed to maintain her composure and achieve her goal of gaining confidence to take on the challenge of a competitive tango match.

Fred and his wife were good, he had to give him some credit. But what he didn't know was that this would be his last dance.

After the dance, everyone applauded and praised. Huey, who didn't realize he had won an audience, clapped awkwardly. As he was about to return to his table.

"Fred Thoroughbred called out to him, "Hey, Sir." Huey grinned, knowing that his plan had been successful. He turned around, and he and Fred exchanged warm greetings.

"Hey, you and your wife were impressive out there," Fred said, shaking Huey's hand firmly. "Likewise," Huey replied with a nod of appreciation.

With a playful smile, Fred inquired, "Did your wife make you take lessons too?"

"The longest class of my life," Huey responded with a chuckle.

Fred erupted into laughter and proposed a toast.

Huey raised his wine glass, and they both took a sip of their drinks. Fred's hand rested comfortably on Huey's shoulder as he leaned in slightly. "How would you like to play a game of poker?" he asked without wasting any time.

Huey inquired, "Tonight?" He had conducted some research and discovered that Fred was a skilled gambler. He was aware that a game was scheduled for that evening.

"I have a private room. My friends and I are going to play shortly," Fred said. "Let the ladies enjoy their conversation, and then you can join us for a good game of poker."

"Alright, what are you waiting for?" Huey challenged, signaling to Irene, who was already engaged in conversation with Fred's wife.

Fred chuckled, "Look at the ladies who have already started their chat," as he wrapped his arm around Huey's shoulder. "You'll regret this," he laughed.

Huey shot him a fierce look.

"Oh, you will too," Huey replied in a serious tone.

---

"Camilla Jones," Jazmine stated, presenting her ID card to the receptionist, who was actually her disguised teammate.

"Room 719," the receptionist replied with a warm smile, handing Jazmine a key card that would grant her access to Liam Henderson's suite. "Thank you," Jazmine said appreciatively.

She stepped into the elevator and ascended to the seventh floor. A wave of melancholy washed over her as memories of their kiss in the elevator in Mexico flooded back. She yearned for those moments when everything seemed perfect and unblemished.

"Focus, Jazmine," she reminded herself.

Jazmine steeled herself, reminding her that personal distractions were a luxury she could not afford. Her mission was clear: she had a target to eliminate. Liam Henderson led a double life; while his wife languished at home in his absence, he indulged in nocturnal escapades with escorts, lavishly compensating them for the privilege of domination.

As Jazmine traversed the dimly lit corridors of the seventh floor, the raucous sounds of intoxicated men emanating from a room two doors down became increasingly intolerable. Their boisterous laughter and shouts suggested they were engrossed in some sort of card game.

"Men," she muttered under her breath, shaking her head in disdain. With a cautious glance around to ensure her surroundings were secure, she swiped her key card against the lock of room 718.

She unlocked the door and immediately noticed Liam standing before her, shirtless and clad only in latex underwear. A drink rested casually in his hand as he flashed a broad grin. "Hey there, pretty," he said, his voice warm with familiarity. Jazmine remained silent, her gaze fixed on him as she removed her dark sunglasses and trench coat, unveiling her striking outfit and the captivating depth of her emerald eyes.

By extending her hand to the back of her head, she removed the pins that supported the elegant bun. She shook her head, allowing her long curly hair to flourish.

She took her whip and hit it in the palm of her hand before walking smoothly towards him. A little birdie told me that you've been a very...very...very...very...naughty boy. She said as she approached him seductively. The sight of her caused Liam to drop his drink. His eyes widened and his mouth started to salivate. Immediately, he assumed his character and was prepared to bow down to her.

"Ooh! Yes! I have been a rotten boy! He exclaimed loudly. Punish me, he asked, rushing into the bedroom. She slapped him with the lash and ordered him to lie on his back.

"You like to help criminals, don't you? "She shouted while whipping him. 'Rapists, drug traffickers, murderers!'

'Oh Yes! ' Liam moaned with pleasure.

---

The men were reveling in the atmosphere, laughter and banter filling the air as they indulged in their drinks. Huey found himself caught in a whirlwind of merriment, yet the weight of their mission loomed heavily on his mind, casting a shadow over his enjoyment. Although he was not one to gamble, he relished the thrill of victory when it came his way. Fred and his two companions, however, were visibly agitated by their losses, particularly at the hands of a newcomer like Huey.

"This is an absolute disaster!" Fred exclaimed, frustration evident as he flung his cards onto the table. The sting of defeat drove him to distraction. "I have never lost so much in my life," he declared with indignation.

"Yeah, this game is rigged," one of Fred's friends chimed in, echoing the sentiment of discontent.

"You know what an old poker face once told me?" Huey interjected after taking a shot and slamming the glass down on the table with emphasis.

If you can't spot the sucker in the first half-hour at the table," he said, pulling out his silenced pistol, "then you ARE the sucker." Before Fred could react, a bullet found its mark in his head. His lifeless body slumped forward, crashing out of his chair.

In an instant, Fred's friends reached for their weapons, but Huey was quicker. With a swift motion, he propelled himself off the ground with his boot while simultaneously firing two guns at Fred's companions, hitting them squarely in the chest.

Huey whistled nonchalantly as he strolled through the dimly lit halls.

"More! Please, more!" a man's moan echoed through the corridor, followed by the sharp crack of a whip. Huey shook his head disapprovingly as he pressed the button to summon the elevator. As he waited for the doors to open, another vibration from his phone caught his attention.

Irene.

"It's done," he said coolly as he stepped into the elevator.

---

"You are a disgusting swine!" Screamed Jazmine, pressing her right foot on his back, her heel digging into his skin, drawing blood.

"Red, red, " he exclaimed, using the safety word to stop it.

'You haven't done a good job as a judge,' she declared, removing her heel from his back. She knelt down and wrapped her hands around his neck. "

"Would you like me to stop? You want justice, don't you? " She yelled at him, pulling his hair tighter.

" Say you want justice! " She demanded..

"I want justice! " He cried. She lowered herself and whispered to him. 'Sorry, this court is adjourned,' she said before snapping his neck, killing him instantly.

With the scene behind her, Jazmine sprang from the balcony. Activating a hidden mechanism, her cat-themed whip transformed into a grappling hook. She expertly launched it towards the rooftop, soaring gracefully down the side of the building as her hair billowed behind her like Batwoman's cape.

Touching down softly on the ground, she took off running, determined to escape unnoticed.

---

"Home sweet home," Huey murmured as he approached the garage, a familiar sanctuary where he stored his firearms and secured them in his hidden compartment. Taking a deep breath, he steeled himself for the part of the evening he dreaded most.

Jazmine's heart raced at the sight of her husband's car parked in the driveway. She had intended to return home before he noticed her absence. With determination, she utilized her grappling hook to ascend to their shared bedroom window, hoping to slip inside unnoticed.

Huey's anxiety surged with each step up the staircase; returning from a mission always left him on edge. He was acutely aware of what awaited him at home—not only had he broken his promise to Jazmine, but it was now four o'clock in the morning.

As he climbed the stairs, an overwhelming sense of guilt washed over him.

---

Once Jazmine became aware of her husband's arrival, she hurried inside to remove her makeup and change out of her clothes. She organized her belongings, slipped into a silk dress, and leapt into bed.

Within moments, Huey entered the room. She quickly closed her eyes, feigning sleep.

Huey's heart sank at the sight of his wife resting peacefully as he began to undress. It seemed she had been waiting for him all night.

He crawled into bed beside his slumbering wife and gently caressed her cheek with his thumb.

"Jazmine," he murmured softly. "Baby, I'm home." He whispered as he embraced her.

Slowly, her eyes fluttered open. "Huey, is that you?" she asked in a strained voice.

'Yes, baby, it's me," he said softly, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

Jazmine felt a surge of joy at being enveloped in her husband's embrace once more. Yet, the memory of his phone call to a woman named Irene lingered in her mind like an unwelcome shadow. It struck her that he had returned home later than usual. As she caught a whiff of the woman's perfume clinging to him, a wave of anger and jealousy washed over her.

"I missed you," Huey murmured, lowering himself to plant another kiss on her lips. But Jazmine turned away, unable to face him.

The sight of him was too painful. Tears welled up in her eyes and cascaded down her cheeks as she buried her face into the pillow before her, sobbing quietly. Her heart felt shattered.

He's cheating on me, she thought bitterly.

Feeling the weight of rejection, Huey glanced up at the ceiling, lost in his own thoughts.

She's angry with me, he realized with a sinking feeling.

Dr. Smith observed the emotions etched across the faces of the Freemans as they unveiled the unraveling of their marriage.

"Would you say that was a very painful event in your marriage?" Dr. Smith inquired, carefully analyzing their body language. Huey squeezed Jazmine's hand in a gesture of support. "Indeed, it was a very difficult situation," he acknowledged. As her husband spoke, Jazmine nodded in agreement and maintained her gaze on him.

"I was profoundly affected by her belief that I was having an affair," Huey continued, his voice tinged with sorrow. "The pain reflected in her eyes when she looked at me was deeply hurtful." He paused for a moment, reflecting on his feelings. "I became so focused on preventing the loss of our relationship that I failed to recognize how much I was already losing her."

"There's no way you could lose me, my love," Jazmine interjected softly, her voice filled with emotion. "It was I who feared losing you, but now I understand that it was all based on misconceptions. The truth is, I wanted to express my feelings to you, but I hesitated due to what I believed to be true."

Believe it or not, I was afraid as well," he admitted to her. In response, Jazmine blushed and smiled warmly at him.

Dr. Smith provided them with an opportunity to articulate their feelings regarding the disintegration of their marriage. He made a few notes before continuing, "So, you two lived in secrecy and inadvertently caused each other pain. Due to your lack of communication and the dishonesty that permeated your relationship, your marriage ultimately crumbled under the weight of lies." He paused for a moment before asking, "How did you manage to revive that?"

They both chuckled as they reminisced about the moment they finally unveiled the truth to one another.

"'Good morning, Huey," An artificial intelligence generated voice resonated through the computer screen, her tone both urgent and authoritative.

"Morning," he replied, taking a sip of his coffee, the warmth of the mug contrasting with the chill of the information being conveyed.

"Quite the body count this week. We have a priority, and I need your expertise."

"I'm listening," Huey confirmed, leaning forward slightly in his chair, his interest piqued.

"Benjamin Danz, also known as The Tank, is our target." As she spoke, a digital image flickered to life on his screen—a white man with dark hair and piercing blue eyes. "He poses a direct threat to the firm. Currently in DIA custody. They're planning a ground-to-air transfer to Heli, approximately ten miles north of the Mexican border. I need you to ensure that the target does not change hands," she instructed firmly.

"The Tank?" he echoed in disbelief, processing the gravity of her words

---

"Good morning, Jazmine,"

Jazmine smiled as she walked past her teammate Hailey on her way into the identification lab.

Upon entering, she extended her arms, allowing the scanners to thoroughly examine her from head to toe.

"Jazmine Elizabeth Freeman confirmed," an artificial intelligence voice announced. "Please wait for contact."

Jazmine waited patiently for the technicians to connect her with the boss.

"Sorry to interrupt, but we have a situation," the boss spoke in a grave tone. His voice was deep and filtered, conveying the seriousness of the matter at hand.

The boss's calls were always serious business; the competition would be delighted to see them fail. "It is my request that you handle this personally," he instructed.

"Target?" Jazmine inquired.

"Benjamin Danz, alias The Tank. I am reviewing the specifications now. It is imperative that this operation is quick, clean, and contained," he provided with urgency.

Jazmine slyly smiles and says, 'Yes, sir.'

The tank? Seriously? Jazmine thought.

Jazmine was currently ensconced at her desert base, poised for the arrival of her target. Her attire consisted of a bulletproof jacket, cargo pants, and sturdy boots, all meticulously chosen for their functionality and protection. She had already set up an array of roadside traps, each one strategically placed to maximize her chances of success. This mission allowed for only one chance and one strike; failure was not an option.

"Are we green?" Hailey inquired through the earpiece, her voice steady yet tinged with anticipation.

"The perimeter is well-equipped. We are up and running," Jazmine replied confidently, her tone betraying none of the tension that simmered beneath the surface. She glanced at her watch, noting the time with a sense of urgency, then inhaled deeply to steady herself.

The waiting game was something she despised; it was a test of patience that often felt like an eternity.

---

"Red team, red team, this is Cairo," Huey's teammate communicated through the dispatcher. "Halftime is approaching," he confirmed.

"Copy that, Cairo," Huey replied as he maneuvered his Jeep Wrangler through the desert at high speed. Known for his arrogance behind the wheel, Huey often engaged in reckless stunts on his way to their destination.

---

""Are you serious right now?" Jazmine murmured as she spotted a green Wrangler barreling toward the base, dangerously ahead of her target.

"Are you getting this?" she communicated through her earpiece. With her high-tech binoculars, she scanned the approaching Jeep, but the driver remained undetectable due to the vehicle's excessive speed.

"Affirmative. Is it a threat?" Hailey inquired.

Before Jazmine could respond, Hailey continued, "Countdown's initiated. The convoy has not yet entered the zone."

Jazmine understood that this meant the sensors had been compromised by that reckless driver. She cursed under her breath, "A moron is on the field; he's going to blow up the chargers," she confirmed to Hailey.

---

Upon arriving at the base, Huey surveyed his surroundings and quickly discerned that he was not alone in this arid landscape. It became evident that another entity had already claimed his base as their own. Despite this realization, he found no tangible evidence of a third party's presence.

With a casual whistle, he commenced the process of dismantling the previous configuration, methodically replacing it with his own setup.

As nature called, he stepped away from the base to relieve himself in the vast expanse of the desert.

---

"You've got to be kidding me," Jazmine exclaims, peering through her binoculars at the man who seems to be urinating in the open.

"Typical men," she scoffs, redirecting her focus to the approaching target. "We have a civilian present on site."

---

Huey was meticulously scanning the area for his target as he approached the military base, maintaining a distance of approximately 400 meters. With a focused determination, he made his way to the rear of his Jeep, where he retrieved his M203 grenade launcher. The weight of the weapon felt familiar in his hands as he carefully maneuvered it towards its designated position.

As he carried the M203, a sharp hiss escaped his lips, a reflexive response to the tension in the air and the gravity of the mission ahead. Each step was deliberate, ensuring that he remainedu aqundetected while preparing for what lay ahead.

---

'We've picked up a weapon signature.'Hailey spoke with urgency.

Jazmine panted as she observed the man wielding an M203A2 grenade launcher.

'Jesus, he's not a civilian,' she exclaimed, quickly seizing her sniper rifle. The threat posed by this individual necessitated immediate action.

'Asshole,' she muttered under her breath before pulling the trigger twice, striking him in the chest.

---

Huey collapsed to the ground, a sharp pain radiating from his chest as he realized he had been shot. Fortunately, the bulletproof vest he wore absorbed most of the impact, though it did graze his arm, leaving a small wound that began to bleed. Annoyed by the sudden attack, Huey quickly regained his footing and reached for his grenade launcher. His eyes scanned the surroundings until they locked onto a figure perched above the base.

With a steady aim and unwavering focus, he muttered to himself, "Gotcha." The silhouette appeared diminutive, perhaps around five feet tall. Despite not being able to discern all the details of his assailant's appearance, Huey dismissed any lingering thoughts; in mere moments, this threat would be nothing more than a fleeting memory.

---

"The countdown has been initiated," Hailey confirmed as the target's vehicle finally passed their sensors, indicating it was now within range for her to execute the termination.

Just as she prepared to take the shot, she noticed a familiar threat—the same individual she had previously engaged. To her astonishment, he appeared unharmed and was now aiming his M203A2 grenade launcher directly at her position.

"Abort!" she shouted, instinctively pulling back from her base. In an instant, her entire facility erupted in flames, a pre-programmed response designed to obliterate all evidence whenever an attack was detected.

---

Huey smiled with satisfaction as the sound of explosives echoed in the distance. "The threat has been eliminated," he affirmed, a sense of accomplishment washing over him.

As he made his way back to his base, however, he was startled by another series of explosions. Instinctively, he dropped his weapon and took cover as debris flew around him. Miraculously, none of the blasts struck him directly.

He let out a sigh of relief, but that relief quickly morphed into despair when he noticed the target's vehicle reversing back toward its original direction.

"Fuck," he muttered under his breath.

It became evident to Huey that the explosion had likely alerted the target, and now he was losing his chance to apprehend them.

---

"The target got away, Hailey confirmed.

'Goddamn bastard,' Jazmine said, jumping on her dirt bike and fleeing the scene.

---

Huey spotted the threat that had gunned him down and ultimately thwarted his mission by fleeing the scene on a dirt bike. Infuriated, he was resolute in his determination to uncover the identity of this individual and exact his revenge personally.

As he meticulously investigated the aftermath of the confrontation, Huey stumbled upon a Panasonic Toughbook laptop, which had been rendered inoperable due to an explosion. Fortunately for him, he possessed extensive knowledge in recovering damaged technologies, a skill that would prove invaluable in this situation.

In a moment of grim reflection, he recalled the bullet that had struck him during the ambush. With careful precision, he removed it from his body armor and scrutinized it closely.

"Whoever you are, you belong to me," he muttered under his breath before departing the scene.

---

"Who was that idiot!" Jazmine shrieked, throwing her hands in the air in frustration. She was infuriated, pacing back and forth in her office. The individual she had been tracking had escaped, and she was determined to uncover the identity of the person who had compromised her mission.

Finally, she slumped into her chair and began typing furiously on her computer. Fortunately for her, Hailey had managed to retrieve a body camera video from the binoculars they had been using. Jazmine impatiently tapped her manicured fingers on the desk as she waited for the video to download.

"Did you get a good view of him?" Hailey asked as she walked into Jazmine's office abruptly. With one hand on her hip, she stood beside Jazmine, eager to see what they had captured.

Jazmine furrowed her brow at the screen. "Not quite... But I will soon."

When the download finally completed, Jazmine watched intently as the video revealed an image of the intruder. "Look at this jerk," she said to Hailey, who leaned closer to watch alongside her.

"Is he serious? He's taking a piss on our site!" Hailey exclaimed, shaking her head in disbelief at the audacity of the intruder.

Jazmine remained silent, her mind racing as she recognized an unsettling familiarity in the intruder. It wasn't merely his physique or height—he resembled an average athletic man. Nor was it solely his low-cut Afro hairstyle that marked him as African American. What truly struck her was the peculiar manner in which he urinated; he shook his right leg before releasing, a distinctive habit that only one man she knew exhibited.

"Jazmine, are you alright?" Hailey asked, concern etched across her face as she observed the grave expression on her teammate's countenance.

Jazmine's heart raced as she stared, grappling with disbelief. This had to be some kind of coincidence, she thought, shaking her head in denial.

"Have the DNA results from the bullet come back yet?" she inquired, referring to the bullet she had recovered from the scene where she shot the intruder.

"It will be ready tomorrow morning," Hailey confirmed.

Jazmine nodded in acknowledgment. "Okay," she replied, repeatedly rewinding the tape.

"It's getting late. I'm heading home now. Are you leaving too?" Hailey asked.

"No... I'm going to stay a little longer tonight," Jazmine replied.

"Alright, well... I'll see you in the morning."

"Enjoy your evening, Jazmine," Hailey added before departing.

Jazmine waved goodbye and said, "You too."

Once Hailey left, Jazmine resumed rewinding the tape of the intruder. She closed her eyes and whispered, "Please let it be someone else."

---

"Were you able to trace the markings on that bullet?" Cairo inquired, glancing over at Huey, who was focused on repairing the computer.

"No," Huey replied, his brow furrowed in concentration. "It seems the perpetrator was astute enough to use a homemade firearm, which renders any serial numbers or markings untraceable."

"Wow... So he utilized a ghost gun?" Cairo asked, but Huey remained silent, intent on his work.

"I can't wait until we apprehend this nigga," Cairo expressed with frustration.

"Trust me, I'm on it," Huey assured him. "I'm determined to catch him."

"You mean her," Irene interjected as she entered the room with a laptop in hand.

"Her?" both Huey and Cairo echoed in surprise.

""Yup... HER." She placed the laptop in front of him.

"I find it hard to believe that a girl could cause this much damage," Cairo remarked skeptically.

Irene rolled her eyes and began to display the surveillance footage recorded from Huey's gun prior to the explosion.

The video, lasting approximately three seconds, captured a figure that appeared to be a woman with a long braided ponytail. Her face remained obscured as she was using binoculars, but her body shape indicated that she was indeed female. Although she stood at an average height for women, her physique was distinctly feminine, characterized by curvy hips.

The brevity of the recording made it challenging to discern finer details; nevertheless, he was resolute in his determination to uncover the identity of this woman.

A gentle hand on his shoulder jolted him from his thoughts. "Were you able to repair the device?" Irene inquired.

Huey promptly activated the device as soon as she posed the question.

"What were you saying?" he inquired confidently.

Irene chuckled, "Wow, Freeman! You actually fixed it!"

"And there you were doubting him," Cairo remarked, casting a sidelong glance at Irene.

"I was not," Irene denied, crossing her arms defensively.

"Yeah, you were," Cairo teased with a smirk.

Huey chose to disregard their playful banter as they continued their mini-argument. Instead, he promptly turned on the computer, only to discover that it was protected by a username and password.

Irene scoffed upon realizing this. "Are you able to jailbreak it?" she asked, concern evident in her voice.

"In under twenty seconds, Huey effortlessly infiltrated the system.

"Irene exclaimed, 'You did it!'"

'My nigga,' Cairo said proudly.

Huey remained steadfast in his pursuit. His primary goal was to uncover any evidence that could lead him to the enigmatic woman.

After a few moments, Irene broke the silence, asking, "Did you uncover any clues?"

"Regrettably, she is one step ahead of us. Her laptop has already been programmed to reset to its factory settings," he confirmed.

Irene let out a scoff in response. "So we're essentially back to square one," she said, her disappointment evident.

"Not entirely. By utilizing the laptop's serial number and lot code, I can track its registration location with relative ease. To do this, I will need to download Barcodeng tracking software."

"If you can pinpoint the registration location, you'll be able to identify the intruder, correct?" Irene inquired.

Huey nodded affirmatively. "I will be able to locate the corporation that manufactured this device; however, additional information will be necessary for me to find the exact intruder."

"Excellency, may I inquire about the duration of this process?" she asked.

"It could take up to eight hours," Huey replied.

"Eight hours!" Cairo exclaimed in disbelief.

"Yes, eight hours is the estimated time required to install the application on the system," Huey clarified.

"Well, in that case, I'll be on my way. Please give me a call when you uncover any leads," Cairo said as she prepared to leave.

"It's also time for me to call it a night. Are you comfortable proceeding on your own?" she asked with a hint of concern in her voice.

"Yeah, get some sleep. If I come across anything, I'll call you, and I'll meet you two in the morning."

"Alright, Hue. Peace," Cairo said as he dismissed him.

"Bye, Huey. Have fun," Irene teased before following closely behind Cairo.

Huey found comfort in solitude. He wasn't entirely forthcoming with his teammates about his plans. The process of downloading the software would only take twenty minutes. In addition to that, he was secretly conducting a DNA fingerprinting analysis on the laptop; the results of which would take several hours to complete.

This investigation felt personal to him, and he had resolved to pursue it independently.

Once the download was complete, he entered the serial and lot numbers into the system. Within seconds, the registration information populated on his screen.

"Wait..." Huey murmured to himself. He recognized that address immediately. Opening a new tab, he accessed Google Maps and inputted the registration details. To his astonishment, it led him to a building he knew all too well.

"What the hell?" he exclaimed.

It was Jazmine's workplace.

"No," he uttered in disbelief. This couldn't be right; perhaps it was a mistake. He slid his desk chair back towards Irene's lab table and replayed the surveillance video from earlier, focusing on the intruder. This time, he slowed the playback speed and enhanced the brightness of the colors.

The woman's distinctive hair color immediately caught his attention—it was a shade only his wife possessed.

As he continued to scrutinize the video, leaning closer to the screen, he noticed that her body shape mirrored that of his wife's perfectly. Indeed, she appeared to be of the same height as well.

This couldn't be happening, he thought to himself in mounting dread.

With urgency, he pulled out his phone and dialed the forensic office.

"Hiro, how soon can you send those DNA results? "Huey inquired, tapping his foot impatiently.

"You need at least 24 hours for the analysis, so the results should be ready by midnight," Hiro explained.

"Okay, make sure you email them to me as soon as possible," Huey requested.

"I gotcha," Hiro replied.

"Thanks," Huey said before hanging up.

He took a moment to glance at his phone screen, which displayed a picture of Jazmine in her wedding dress as his screensaver.

He recalled how fortunate he felt when he married her. He firmly grasped his phone; it shouldn't be calling her.

But he needed to know.

He pressed on his wife's contact to call her.

"Hey baby," she answered on the first ring. In a panicked tone, she asked, "Is everything okay?"

"Yes, honey, everything is fine. I'm calling to let you know that I won't be able to come home tonight. I've gotten stuck with a lot of paperwork that needs to be completed by tomorrow morning," he explained.

A silence lingered on her end of the line.

"Oh. Well, I suppose I'll see you when you return, my love."

"Yes. I'll see you," Huey replied, his gaze fixed intently on the surveillance video.

"Goodbye, my love," she said, her voice tinged with sadness.

"Wait! Jazmine?" Huey began to ask about the information he had discovered.

"Yes, Huey?" Jazmine responded.

Huey hesitated for a moment, closing his eyes as he struggled to find the right words. Ultimately, he simply said,

"I love you."

---

As she shed a tear, Jazmine paused, feeling a wave of unease wash over her. Her husband had never worked an overnight shift before. While he might have stayed late on occasion, he always returned home to her. The realization that he had no intention of coming home only deepened her suspicions.

"I love you too, my love," she murmured, her eyes fixed on the video she kept replaying in her mind.

"Jazz. Honey, I gotta go," Huey said hurriedly.

"Okay, baby. Have a good night," she replied softly.

"Goodnight," was all he managed before the line went dead.

---

Huey exhaled a heavy sigh, the weight of his decision pressing down on him. Leaving his wife alone at home filled him with a profound sense of guilt, yet he remained steadfast in his determination to see his investigation through to the end. This pursuit had transcended mere duty; it had become a quest for his own peace of mind. He needed to uncover the identity of the enigmatic intruder who had disrupted their lives.

His wife was an ordinary woman leading an unremarkable life, making it implausible that she could be involved in any wrongdoing. It was he who harbored secrets, hidden beneath layers of normalcy. Reflecting on the kindness and support she had consistently shown him, he found it difficult to entertain the notion that she could be anything but innocent.

Surely, this must be a coincidence.

It simply had to be...

"But it wasn't merely a coincidence, was it?" Dr. Smith asked the couple.

Jazmine and Huey exchanged glances, their expressions heavy with melancholy.

"Regrettably, it was not," Huey responded. "The moment I received that email from Hiro, it felt as though my entire world had crumbled, and my life was irrevocably altered."

Jazmine nodded in agreement, sharing the same profound sense of loss upon discovering the truth about Huey.

"What occurred after you received the results?" Dr. Smith probed further.

Huey shook his head slowly. "Oh, it was nothing short of a bloodbath."

Huey found himself engulfed in a profound state of shock and disbelief as the computer screen illuminated with the name and image of Jazmine Elisabeth DuBois, identified as a high-profile assassin, matching the DNA forensic results. The photograph appeared to have been taken long before their marriage, yet there was no mistaking it; the intruder was undeniably his wife.

How could he have been unknowingly entangled with an enemy all this time?

What signs had he overlooked?

Did she ever truly love him, or was everything merely an elaborate façade?

His tumultuous thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a gentle touch on his shoulder.

"Huey?"

Irene's concerned gaze met his as she inquired, "Are you alright?"

Huey stared at her incredulously. "It has just come to my attention that my entire marriage is predicated on a lie, leaving me utterly devastated inside. Of course, I am not alright."

Irene nodded in understanding. "I apologize, Huey. We are profoundly upset and astonished by all of this. Who would have imagined that your wife was the competition all along?"

Huey exhaled sharply, frustration evident in his demeanor. "This is unbelievable," he said, his anger beginning to boil over. "Damn it!" he exclaimed furiously, hurling a gadget across the room.

At that moment, Cairo entered with a concerned expression etched on his face.

"Hey, Huey," he said cautiously.

"WHAT?" Huey responded, his tone dangerously low.

Cairo swallowed hard. "Take it easy, man," he said, raising his hands defensively. "I'm really sorry about your wife, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the boss says you have 48 hours to... well, you know." He left the sentence unfinished; the implication was clear.

Huey buried his face in his hands as the weight of Cairo's words sank in. He had 48 hours to eliminate the threat—and that threat was Jazmine.

---

"Jazmine... Are you alright?" Hailey asked, her voice laced with concern. Jazmine remained silent, her gaze fixed on the large projector screen that displayed an image of the enemy from the desert. The DNA evidence had revealed that the man who had attempted to take her life was a notorious assassin, infamously known as her husband, Huey P. Freeman.

Tears welled in Jazmine's eyes as she stared into the face of the man she had once believed to be her entire world.

Now, that world was crumbling around her.

"Hailey... Can you spare me a moment?" Jazmine's voice trembled as she spoke. She pressed her fingertips against her lips, trying to quell their quivering.

"Of course, take all the time you need," Hailey replied sincerely.

'Thank you, I appreciate it,' she replied.

Jazmine held it together while Hailey left the room, but as soon as she was alone, Jazmine broke down in tears.

Her emotions were filled with betrayal, pain, and confusion.

This whole time, she was living with a stranger. One that poses a threat.

When she ponders it, she always wondered why he wore a police uniform in Mexico. When they wed, he explained that he worked at a law firm. She avoided asking questions out of fear that he would ask them.

Jazmine was blinded by her love for him, even though he worked late and had cuts and bruises on his body on nights.

She pondered his motives. Was he aware of her identity? Did he get married to distract her? From what she's told, the cooperation he worked for and hers were rivals.

Why did he choose to marry her? What could possibly motivate him to make her fall so deeply in love, only to shatter her heart in the end?

Hailey burst into the room without warning.

"Jazmine, I apologize for interrupting you, but the boss needs to speak with you immediately!" she exclaimed, handing Jazmine the company phone.

Jazmine froze momentarily, her body tense. As she lifted the phone to her ear, a slight tremor ran through her hand.

"Jazmine Elisabeth DuBois, please confirm," an artificial intelligence voice instructed.

"Confirmed," Jazmine replied, striving to maintain her composure despite the rising anxiety within her.

"Thank you. Please hold for contact."

As she prepared herself for whatever news awaited her, Jazmine inhaled deeply.

"Hello!" The boss's voice came through with an unmistakable seriousness.

"Boss, did you request to speak with me?" Jazmine inquired.

"Yes, I did. I need to discuss some troubling information regarding your husband, who I have been informed is affiliated with our competition. Can you confirm whether this information is accurate?" he asked.

Jazmine hesitated before responding, "Yes, that is correct. However, I was unaware of his true identity until now. While this may come as news to you, it is equally surprising to me."

"I find your decision to allow this situation to develop quite disappointing. Although it is not my place to delve into personal matters, company policy mandates a thorough background check for romantic partners—a procedure that clearly has not been followed," he reprimanded.

"Boss, I want to clarify that when my husband and I became serious, I conducted a thorough background check on him, and he came out clean. I recognize my mistake in this situation and sincerely apologize to you and the team; it was never my intention to let anyone down," Jazmine said, her voice tinged with anger at the thought of the implications.

"I appreciate your efforts," he replied, his tone stern. "However, an apology does not mitigate the fact that you have jeopardized this organization and your colleagues. It is imperative that you take immediate action to neutralize this threat. Your husband has become a liability, and I trust you will handle this matter appropriately. Given the personal nature of this issue, I am granting you a 48-hour extension to resolve it. Should you fail to act within this timeframe, there will be severe repercussions." His voice carried an unmistakable edge of menace.

Jazmine's heart sank as she grasped the gravity of his words. She faced an agonizing choice: either eliminate her husband or risk her own life.

""Do you understand the terms, Jazmine?" he asked.

Jazmine felt her eyes welling up as she replied, "Yes, sir, I understand." She fought back her tears, determined to maintain her composure.

"Very well. Call me when the job is done," he said before abruptly ending the call.

Jazmine closed her eyes tightly, gripping her phone as if it were a lifeline. The way he had made it sound so simple ignited a fire of anger within her. This was far more than just a job; within 48 hours, everything she knew and loved could come crashing down around her, and there seemed to be nothing she could do to prevent it.

Hailey, who had been quietly observing the conversation from a distance, approached her with concern etched on her face.

"If you feel like you can't go through with this, we're here to support you. Just let us know and we'll handle it for you," she offered gently.

Jazmine's eyes flew open, her gaze piercing as she glared at Hailey.

"No. I will handle this problem alone, as it is my issue," Jazmine asserted firmly, rejecting Hailey's offer of assistance. She returned the company's phone to Hailey and began to gather her belongings with a sense of urgency.

"Just so you know, I have reviewed Huey Freeman's files, and he is an exceptionally skilled assassin. It is crucial that you eliminate him before he uncovers your identity. Once he learns who you are, he will undoubtedly attempt to kill you. Better him than you," Hailey warned, but Jazmine chose to disregard her words. As she reached for her bag, Hailey swiftly intercepted it.

"Hailey, please hand over my bag," Jazmine requested, striving to maintain her composure despite the tension in the air.

Hailey looked at Jazmine with pleading eyes. "Please, Jazmine, as your fellow teammates, let us help you. A plan has been devised to terminate him; all you have to do is say the word."

The realization struck Jazmine like a thunderclap: they had concocted a scheme to kill her husband without her consent.

Fury ignited within her. "No one touches my husband but me. You got that?" she said aggressively, stepping closer to Hailey, invading her personal space.

Feeling threatened, Hailey instinctively backed away slightly and let out a resigned sigh. "Fine, Jazmine, have it your way," she replied. "But you better be careful. Huey Freeman is a dangerous man."

Jazmine rolled her eyes as she adjusted the bag slung over her shoulder. "I'm a dangerous woman; I can handle myself," she asserted defiantly, pulling out her cell phone to make a call.

"What are you doing now?" Hailey inquired, her tone laced with curiosity.

Jazmine felt a flicker of annoyance at the way her teammate scrutinized her every action.

"I'm texting my husband. Dinner is at seven o'clock," she replied tersely, tucking her phone away with a hint of irritation.

Hailey's lips curled into a smirk. "Oh... I sense a poisonous dinner is on the horizon," she remarked, her voice dripping with mock pride.

Jazmine managed a smile, albeit flatly. "You know me too well," she said, the weight of the situation pressing down on her.

"I'll have to go," Jazmine announced, turning towards the exit with determination.

But Hailey halted her progress.

"Remember how you once thought of him as your husband? Now he's your target. The more you frame it that way, the easier it will become," she stated gravely, locking eyes with Jazmine.

Silence enveloped Jazmine as she walked away; however, Hailey's words echoed in her mind.

She had no desire to bring harm to her husband. Her love for him was genuine, yet he was a professional killer—one who would likely eliminate her if he uncovered her true identity. The emotional turmoil within her clouded her judgment; survival was paramount. The only path forward seemed to lead to his termination, even though such an act would shatter her heart into pieces.

---

Jazmine: I missed you last night, but I'll be eagerly anticipating our meeting tonight. Dinner is scheduled for 7, my love.

Cairo inquired whether she was indeed texting him, and Huey frowned, feeling a sense of irritation at Cairo's involvement in his personal matters.

"Yeah. She mentioned dinner at 7," Huey confirmed.

"Oh man. I wouldn't trust anything she cooks; it sounds like a recipe for disaster," Cairo remarked with a hint of sarcasm.

"It could very well be a trap," Irene interjected, her voice laced with concern. "Are you certain you want to go alone? I've heard that woman can be quite ruthless," she added.

"No, I must face this alone," Huey asserted resolutely as he began to gather his weapons.

"How do you intend to carry out your plan?" Cairo asked, curiosity piqued.

Huey remained silent, failing to provide an answer.

"If it were up to me," Cairo continued, "I would first seduce her to lower her defenses, and then once she is vulnerable, I would swiftly sever her neck."

Or perhaps we could simply inject her while she sleeps, as Irene suggested."

"Nah, that would take too long. Besides, she isn't going to sleep, especially if she's trying to kill him too."

"Are you implying that she knows his identity?" Irene asked.

"If she doesn't know his identity by now, then she isn't doing her job properly. Regardless of whether she is aware or not, she should be eliminated as soon as possible!" Cairo asserted.

Irene chuckled. "That would create quite a mess. It would be more prudent for him to take a—"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!" Huey shouted, cutting them both off. They turned to him in surprise.

"It's absurd that you're treating this like a joke. This is my life we're discussing; show some goddamn respect!" he exclaimed. "I don't want to hear anything about my wife. How I choose to handle this situation is my business," Huey stated firmly.

But it is our concern if your wife is jeopardizing the reputation of our organization," Irene said, her voice laced with anger. "If it becomes known that one of us has been involved with the enemy, we will be branded as traitors!" she exclaimed vehemently.

"Huey, we sincerely apologize for any offense we may have caused you. We understand that you are grappling with this situation, but your life is at stake. It is crucial that you sever ties with her; otherwise, you risk being killed, and we cannot afford to lose you. We need you on this team," Irene stated earnestly.

"Yeah, man, you've got to let her go. There are plenty of women out there, but there's only one of you," Cairo added.

Yet he was mistaken. Huey doubted he would ever encounter another woman like Jazmine. She was truly one-of-a-kind, and he was profoundly in love with her—despite his reluctance to admit it. His teammates were correct; he needed to distance himself from her because she was not the person he believed her to be.

Huey sighed deeply. "I should be heading out soon; I have some matters to attend to," he announced as he prepared to leave.

He glanced at his teammates. 'After tonight, she won't be an issue.' I'll call you when it's done, Huey said in a deadly tone before storming out.