The extent of wickedness – Part 6
Thursday continued …
Alecia took a slow, steady breath, though her hands were still trembling slightly.
“While I was on the balcony, I saw a man who had been speaking with my father earlier. Because of that, I believed it was safe to talk to him. He introduced himself, and we started a conversation.”
She paused briefly, collecting herself.
“As we spoke, I didn’t realise that he was gradually leading me further away from the main area. By the time I became aware of it, I was no longer within sight of anyone.”
Her voice lowered.
“He then forced me away from the balcony area. I tried to resist, but I couldn’t get free. I was taken somewhere secluded where I couldn’t see clearly or call for help.”
Her breathing grew uneven, and she tightened her grip on her hands.
“I was restrained… and completely unable to escape.”
She stopped for a moment, overcome.
James gently pulled her closer, holding her steady as she struggled to continue. His voice was calm and reassuring.
“You’re safe now. Take your time. You’re doing the right thing.”
Alecia nodded faintly and steadied herself.
An officer spoke in a calm, professional tone.
“You don’t need to describe anything beyond what you’re comfortable with. Just explain what happened in your own words.”
Alecia closed her eyes briefly, then continued.
“I was assaulted,” she said quietly. “It was violent, and I was extremely frightened. There was more than one person involved.”
The room fell silent.
“They threatened me… said that if I spoke about it, they would harm my father. They wanted to make sure I stayed silent.”
She took another breath.
“I remember a flash, like a photograph being taken. I believe they intended to use it against me… to intimidate me further.”
Her fingers tightened slightly around James’s sleeve.
“When they left, I was unable to move properly. My father found me and took me to the hospital. The medical staff treated me and collected evidence.”
She lowered her gaze.
“At that time, I was too afraid to say anything more. I only reported that I had been attacked.”
Her voice softened.
“It wasn’t until last night, after speaking with Anna, that I realised remaining silent would only cause more harm.”
The officer nodded.
“Miss Alecia, are you able to identify any of the individuals involved?”
Alecia hesitated for a moment.
Then she answered clearly.
“The man who first approached me… identified himself as Lu Jinhu.”