SURVIVOR: Ghost – Bodyguard Series (S01 • E16)🩸🔞
By:- Adewole Kelvin
“DESPERATE MEASURE”
Omni-pov
As the day went on, the sun was absent from the sky, though there was still a faint brightness. A blue Challenger sped through a rural area dotted with a few farmhouses and cottages, kicking up dust in its wake. The car had been on the road for hours, racing nonstop.
Eventually, it turned and came to a halt in front of an old white farmhouse, surrounded by neatly kept bushes.
As the car came to a stop, the front door opened and Lorenzo and Bao stepped out. Bao stretched and looked around, rubbing her arms against the light chill in the air. Meanwhile, Lorenzo walked to the trunk and retrieved the beautiful luggage he had bought for her on their way with some other things. Bao was dressed in a brand new blue short-sleeved blouse and dark jeans, while Lorenzo wore a large sweater over baggy, distressed jeans. He closed the trunk gently, glancing at Bao as she continued scanning the area, still rubbing her forearms.
Noticing her reaction, part of him sensed she was nervous—while another part believed she wasn’t. But as far as he was concerned, her safety here mattered more than anything else. He needed to be sure she was truly okay. Although he felt some relief bringing her to this place, he still wanted to know how she felt, even if this was their only option for now. Her well-being came first. Quietly, he walked over and embraced her warmly from behind, leaving the luggage beside them. As he held her close, feeling her body against his, Bao placed her hands on his wrist and let out a quiet sigh of relief.
Lorenzo: Is there anything you’d like to share with me?
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Bao: This is it. I mean, the house.
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Lorenzo: Yes, that’s the one. That being said, I’m concerned the house might not be your taste, but it’s the safest option for you right now, till we get you out of the country
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Bao: (chuckles) What do you know about my taste, man with a good vision? It’s not as if I complained or something, did I? (sigh softly) I’m just fascinated by the surroundings of the rural area. It’s quiet and peaceful… I like places that are quiet and peaceful, you know? You should know that by now, dear.
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Lorenzo: Fair point, I should know your taste by now… I supposed I was wrong then..
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Bao: No! (Singsong) Because I also like something extravagant and beautiful.
Bao stepped away from Lorenzo and walked over to a rose bush a short distance from him, carefully cutting a flower. Lorenzo said nothing, simply watching her as she gently played with the petals using her fingers. A smile formed on his face as he watched—he couldn’t help but recall the days when they were kids. She used to play with flowers all the time, especially roses. He remembered how she would cut a few, place them in a vase, and care for them every day, watching them grow. She always loved them deeply.
Watching her explore the plants, he knew it would take her a while before she moved on from the rose flowers. So, he seized the moment and carried the luggage into the house. Shortly after, he came out of the farmhouse and sat on the three steps of the veranda, continuing to watch her as she explored the plants around the house, a warm smile spread across her face. Seeing that beaming look on her pretty face brought him a sense of comfort that washed over him—like he could disappear into her presence and shower her face with kisses.
In that moment, his phone beeped in his pocket, prompting him to pull it out. As he checked the screen, his slight smile faded, replaced by a stunned look when he saw who was calling. He stole a glance at Bao, who was still focused on the plants, then quietly stepped onto the veranda before answering the call. His stunned expression soon shifted to a furrowed one.
Caller: Howdy, Lobos!
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Lorenzo: Hey! You’ve something to say, Chief?
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Caller: (sighs) Ah, Good energy! Something like that inspires me a lot. (grave voice) I hope your family are preparing for your funeral. Lobos, do you think me a fool?
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Lorenzo: That Gordo spotted me with your debtor’s daughter, isn’t it? (scoffs) That bitch must have croaked by now.
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Caller: As you will. Splendid! I admire your spirit; you never cease to amaze me. Looks like someone knows the rules of the game better, but seems Gordo didn’t know he was seen before his fate was sealed.
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Lorenzo: Look, I presume you’ve got a better reasons for calling. Spit it out!
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Caller: You’ve got some guts, Lobos. You’re as good as dead. Even interfering in my own matter when you’re supposed to be worrying about your tragic end. How dare you keep Bao away from me? Knowing her father is a debtor who’s failed to pay back his debt. And you think I’d be staying by her father’s fake promises, which he’s been finding challenging to pay, when she can fund me? Come on, Lobos. You know the rules of this game. Rules are always rules. Oops, I almost forgot. You might be wondering how I got her name – Bao. A good name. But you’re a smart one, I believe you know better by now. From what I’ve heard, your love journey with her is incredibly captivating, all thanks to the dead Gordo, a good storyteller. (scoffs) You think sprinting with her or hiding her from me would stop me from getting her? You think I’m going to allow her to go scot-free without paying her father’s debt? Don’t be too cocky! Your life might have been spared if you had brought her, but you decided to keep her hidden, you snitch. You just added another consequence to the first you are meant to receive today. Do you really think she’s safe just because she’s with you? Hahaha, you know what this organization is made of, my friend. She can only hide, but not run forever. But I’ll give you one chance because I feel you can do better for this organization. Her life for your life. The choice is yours… for now.
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Lorenzo: “Her life for my life” – And I’ll be let off?
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Caller: I don’t see any reasons why not as long as you give her up, your death will be renounced.
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Lorenzo: What if I won’t give her up?
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Caller: (synical tone) You’re smarter than this. You know what that means, already. The choice is yours to make, Lobos. (Hints) He-he, I assume you don’t want the situation to spiral out of control.
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Lorenzo: Since we’ve agree on the terms, I’ll give her up. And bring her to you myself.
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Caller: Bravo!
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Lorenzo: (growl) But you’ll have to go through me first. Let’s play game!
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Caller: What a tragic death wish! Ah, Lobos, you never cease to amaze me. What do you gain by getting yourself killed? Why are you calling death upon yourself? Are you a heartless brother who wants to put your sister in a state of excruciating pain? Do you want your sister to shed crocodiles tears over your corpse? Or your loving girlfriend, who will be my disposal container for my orgasm after your demise, reminding her every day of your unfortunate death when I screw her?
Hearing that, Lorenzo gnashed his teeth and clenched his left fist in anger, his expression twisted in even greater fury. He couldn’t imagine the feelings of letting Bao be used as a sex toy in someone else’s home; he would never forgive himself if that happened, as he listened with growing fury.
Caller: Is she worth dying for? Because that’s how I feel. (Scoffs) Oh, let me get this straight. Love! Someone should remind me of that quote again: ‘Love is not because of who you are, but because of who I am when I am with you…’ (Mocking laughter) LOVE? Hahaha! Fuck love. Dead Gordo was right about you; you wouldn’t trade her life for anything. Now, I see you’re doing great. What’s your statement again? ‘But you have to kill me first….’ Just hear yourself talking. I’m giving you a second chance to stay alive…
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Lorenzo: (Barges in) No, I’m the one giving you a chance to face me one on one in the octagon. What do you say, Chief? Unless you’re afraid of getting your ass beaten…
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Caller: (stiff laugh) Can you listen to yourself? Or you wanna say get your own ass killed when I break every inch of your bones in your body with my bare hand. I’ll give you that, but you can only try. You have no idea whom you’re dealing with, boy…
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Lorenzo: Let’s find out!
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Caller: Is that so? It’ll be my pleasure. I hope the men I ordered to make your life a living hell in the cell for failing me didn’t break your bones too much to fight for your love….
Hearing the statement triggered memories of his time in the cell after his arrest—brutal memories of gang members jumping him repeatedly, breaking the bridge of his nose. It nearly cost him his life. Those four weeks behind bars were pure hell. What he didn’t know at the time was that it had all been orchestrated—a setup, later confessed by the caller himself. Lorenzo’s face darkened, his eyes burning with fury. His fist clenched, ready to lash out, but he stayed silent and listened. The caller, hoping for a reaction, sniffed and spoke again—this time, with bitter disappointment—before Lorenzo could respond.
Caller: I thought so.
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Lorenzo: Nice thought! Dundas Street—3rd Skull territory—at 10 o’clock!
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Caller: Where your death would take place, I presume. Well, then, Lobos, it’s good to know you value her life more than your own. I’d gladly welcome you with death!
The moment he said that, Lorenzo ended the call immediately, turning around—only to find Bao standing at the edge of the three steps that led up to the veranda where he stood. She was there, silent and unmoving, giving him a blank yet piercing look that struck him deeper than any words could. In that instant, his thoughts began to spiral. Had she been there the whole time? Had she heard everything he said on the phone? If she had, then he feared the worst—it would take the whole world and more to win back the goodness of her heart. Especially now, with the deadly task he was preparing to carry out—one she would never approve of, not out of disloyalty, but because of the fear that it could cost her the man she loved.
For any reason, she felt she didn’t have to be mad at him for his next move, knowing deep down that he was doing everything to save her—no matter the cost. But whatever thoughts he had about her feelings vanished the moment she walked up to him, a faint smile playing on her lips as she spoke.
Bao: I thought you had left me for inside.
Hearing that, Lorenzo heaved a sigh of relief and spoke with a serious expression, though a slight smile curled at the corner of his lips.
Lorenzo: Seems like someone has something in mind to do if had done that. Or maybe you have something planned for me.
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Bao: That sounds right to me. Because I was planning on starting world war III with you in the house.
Bao said sarcastically, folding her arms and looking him in the eyes as she stood in front of him. Hoping he would respond to her sarcasm, he slowly embraced her and pulled her close with an expression that unsettled her as she felt his arms around her waist. Sensing something was wrong, she grew a bit uneasy—then he spoke words that left her mute.
Lorenzo: Thank you for coming into my life. As long as I breath, I promise to protect you and cherish you no matter what happened.
After his genuine statement, she unfolded her arms and wrapped them around his shoulders, comforted by his gentle words, even without knowing the reasons behind them. As far as she was concerned, the reasons didn’t matter—as long as they were together. As they embraced affectionately, Bao exhaled deeply, releasing her feelings in a soft, sincere voice.
Bao: I love you so much, Lorenzo.
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Lorenzo: I know. I love you too.
Lorenzo answered in a hoarse voice, planting a kiss on her head while his eyes scanned the area with cautious observation and intent, as if suspicious.
Bao: You know, I wish we could stay like this forever.
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Lorenzo: I wish, honey! Come on, let’s get inside!
Saying that, Lorenzo released her body and held her hand as he opened the door. Bao’s eyes were etched with love—she couldn’t take them off him, especially with the way he held her: earnestly, affectionately, and tightly, as if he’d never let go. It wasn’t just an ordinary touch; to her, it was something deeper, something anyone in love could relate to. In that moment, he wasn’t just her lover—he was her source of strength, her comfort, her confidence. The thought of life without him unsettled her. He was the love of her life, the only one who truly cared for and understood her. She couldn’t bear to imagine a world without him.
As they entered the house, Bao slipped free from his strong grip, her attention drawn to a rose in a small, elegant vase on a wooden table. After briefly scanning the room, she walked over, captivated by the flower, and lifted the vase to admire it, sniffing it with a look of admiration. Lorenzo, unsurprised by her sudden move, quietly locked the door behind them. He dropped the key into his pocket, then walked over to the small dining area and opened the fridge. He pulled out a bottle of whiskey and a glass, gently closed the fridge door with his leg, and stepped into the cozy living room to sit on the long, soft couch.
Within seconds, he opened the bottle, poured the drink into the glass, and took a sip, his eyes fixed on Bao as she gently explored the flower. He made a teasing gesture toward her before taking another sip.
Lorenzo: I see you’ve found something likely companionable!
Comprehending his statement, Bao glanced at him and carefully placed the vase back down. She asked a question, pretending not to understand what he meant, as she walked over to join him on the chair with a brief smile
Bao: And what might that be?
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Lorenzo: You know what might that be!
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Bao: (scoffs) No, tell me what might that be!
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Lorenzo: Just because we were apart for months doesn’t make me an imbecile. I know you too well, my dear. Snap out of it and admit you understood what I literally meant.
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Bao: Fuck! I’m taking that as a free pass because, honestly, I have no idea what you meant.
Bao shrugged, trying to defend herself, even though she knew he was right.
Lorenzo: I don’t buy that. Don’t be stubborn. You’re not good at lying, honey!
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Bao: Okay, fine! You caught me. You meant the rose, I’m shocked! But it’s not as companionable as you’re to me. Will you spend some more time?
As she asked, she gently rested her head on his broad shoulder and forearm. Lorenzo slipped his hand behind her back, pulling her closer as he wrapped his arms around her waist. Then, he leaned his head against hers and exhaled before replying.
Lorenzo: Yes… As much as we want.
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Bao: And would you stay if I told you to?
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Lorenzo: Yes, but no. As much as I’d like us to spend time as much as we want, honestly, I can’t stay for too long. I’ve got other things that needs to be taken care of.
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Bao: Am I that isipid that you would say so?
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Lorenzo: Fuck, no! You misunderstood me…
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Bao: No, I understood you. (chuckles) I was just kidding. But what I don’t really understand is what exactly needs to be taken care of. Now, I’m going to ask you right away—be honest with me, Lorenzo. (gasps) Have you ever killed someone before?
Bao asked softly, her head still resting on his shoulder as she craved an answer, even though she hadn’t meant to ask, especially considering his gang lifestyle. She knew he wasn’t an exception to what other gangsters did in the state, but in that moment, her curiosity needed satisfaction.
Asked with a question, Lorenzo gulped down the whiskey from the bottle in his hand and dropped the glass cup, remaining silent for a while before answering her in a quiet tone.
Lorenzo: Yes.
His response felt like a sharp needle piercing into her skin after she heard it, stopping her from toying with his forearm in an instant. Her curious expression was replaced by one of disappointment. Even though, as a gangster, she knew killing was the first task he’d be given to prove his loyalty to the organization, she still couldn’t believe he had done that. She asked one more time in her soft tone, now replaced by dour expression.
Bao: How many?
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Lorenzo: Four! It was never persona…
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Bao: (interjected) Yes, it wasn’t!
Saying that, Bao lifted her head off his shoulder and placed her legs on the sofa, leaning her back against the arm of the chair while facing him with her arms folded akimbo. She then added to her statement, fixing her eyes on him, her expression and reactions showing she wasn’t happy, which Lorenzo knew as he looked in her direction.
Bao: I know–I didn’t say it was personal!
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Lorenzo: (Sigh) After I was forced to join the organization and sent on an errand by the men who killed my casual friend and his sister, I learned that most of the money made from the drug business was taken by the men for their own selfish interests. The cash earned always surpassed the exact amount made by them and given to the superior before I complied with them. They lived extravagantly in the absence of the superior and treated me and my friend like pieces of shit. Then one night, the FBI raided the mansion where the men secretly stayed with the superior himself, leaving these selfish men in the greatest shock of their lives as they couldn’t believe how their location was discovered by the superior. There was no one else who knew their secret location other than my casual friend, Reid. Also, the fact that the superior was among the FBI made it look like a setup. The FBI, ordered by the superior himself, spoke in Spanish, which was difficult for me to understand while I was pinned down. Everything happened so fast when the superior looked me in the eyes and handed me a gun to end the men’s lives. He then ordered one of the FBI agents to take my life if I failed to kill the men in five seconds. As much as I hated what the men had done to me, there was a part of me that didn’t want to pull the trigger, but five seconds was my only chance to stay alive that night. I had no choice but to put bullets in the men’s heads and kill them…
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Bao: I didn’t say you had a choice either, Lorenzo.
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Bao blurted softly, Lorenzo turned his gaze in her direction for awhile, as she also fixed her eyes at him. Then he gasp a little and added, taking his eyes off her and facing forward.
Lorenzo: I know. (continues) Later that very day, the superior summoned me to carry out a task for him personally with his drug as a test run. This went on for a month, and I was amazed by how my hands were fortunate with the drug business. He liked me because of that and made me his right-hand man after a month of testing, allowing other members to respect me as much as he was respected. He was an eye-opener, making me understand why he had the men killed that night, which had left me wondering before. During the month I worked, I was too naive to understand that back then. Meanwhile, he knew the selfish acts of the men, teaching me to learn from their mistakes and from whoever betrays him…
Saying that, Lorenzo gulped down the whiskey in the glass cup and placed it on the table before them. Bao said in a chuckling, soft voice, still fixing her eyes on him, trying to be careful with her words without sounding too direct.
Bao: And here you are, sitting with your, uh, superior’s debtor’s daughter, when you have every chance in the world to turn me in to your boss. Doesn’t this feel like some kind of betrayal?
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Lorenzo: No, given our past, handing you over to him to settle your father’s debts—debts you never knew about—and using you as a sex toy to pay them back in that way is the true act of betrayal. I won’t sit by and watch that happen, no!
After saying that, Lorenzo grasped the cup with the whiskey bottle and stood, walking into the dining area with a confident stride. He then put the whiskey bottle back into the fridge while Bao watched him in silence, marveling at his response and his confident poise. She knew he wasn’t a god or some powerful being, but his manner towards her made her feel at ease. Looking in his direction, she cleared her throat and spoke out genuinely as he looked inside the fridge in silence, as if searching for something.
Bao: Hey, about what you said earlier, regarding the, uh, selfish men you killed—I was just curious, which led me to ask that question. It sure hurts to know you actually killed people. The deed is done, and there’s nothing that can change the fact that you killed, even though it wasn’t your fault or your intention. You only had 5 seconds to live that night, and it was the only way out to stay alive. Sometimes, we’re trapped and forced to do wrong things for the right reasons. I have no right to judge that. You did what anyone else might have done and anyone can relate. I’m no exception; I’d have done the same if our roles were reversed.
Saying that, Lorenzo gently slammed the fridge door shut, startling her, and calmly stepped out of the dining room without a word—his face expressionless—as he sat on the chair beside her. With his fingers steepled and his forearms resting on his thighs, he faced forward without giving her a single glance, which Bao quickly noticed, lowering her head in response.
His action left her with sudden, conflicting thoughts in her head, as he hadn’t shown any sign that he was truly with her. But she immediately pushed the thought away and decided to find out what was the matter with him
Bao: You okay?
Asked with a question, Lorenzo glanced at her, followed by a quick smile. The flicker of his smile alone gave her a sense of relief as she looked in his direction.
Lorenzo: I’m alright. Just wondering what’s taking the passport agent so long to get here. She should be around by now… (Sighs) Hey, come!
He added, then stretched out his hand towards her to grasp her hand and pull her closer, while he slowly raised his legs onto the arms of the chair at the end. His lovely gesture gave her a sense of comfort and security, encouraging her to crawl up to him and gently lean on top of him as he reclined against the chair. His arms wrapped around her body, followed by a soft sigh of relief, as they felt each other’s hearts and breathing. Their position fostered relaxation and comfort between them.
Tbc…