Seven

Stephen's voice trembled, his words laced with desperation. "I am not trash," he gasped, grasping for air.

Judas's eyes narrowed, his tone cold. "Stephen, why do you want to be treated like this before providing the necessary information?"

Stephen's eyes darted around the room, pleading for mercy.

Just then, Matthew intervened. "Judas, I'll be back in a few minutes," he said, his deep voice calm.

With a nod, Matthew turned and left the room, leaving Judas and Stephen alone in the tense silence.

Judas's voice was cool and calculated as he leaned in, his piercing eyes fixed intently on Stephen's trembling form. The dim lighting in the room seemed to amplify the tension between them. "Stephen, now that Matthew's gone, I suggest you cooperate," Judas said, his tone dripping with persuasion. "I promised to release you once you provide the information I need."

Stephen's gaze faltered, fear creeping into his eyes like a thief in the night. His shoulders sagged under the weight of Judas's sta