Brand

Hills. As I stepped out of the car, I saw them. Eva, draped dramatically against Austin,

e been so frightened. We came here to pray, but I'm just too weak. Austi

wanted me, the real victim, to pray for her and her illegitimate child? I

nd her waist. "Alexis!" Austin hissed, his voice lethal. "What are you

ugh escaping me. "The only sinne

tin, don't! She's upset. Let me do it. I'll pray for our baby."

rk and menacing. "Don't push me, Alexis," he warned, his voice lo

A faint smile touched my lips. "Fine," I s

ng a jolt of pain through me. One step. Two steps. Each one a deliberate, agonizing act of submission. I he

disappeared into the winding mountain path, the rising sun casting long, twisted shadows. My knees were

and Eva stood waiting at the temple doors, their faces impassive. I staggered, m

p. "Perhaps a few hours of chanti

d with a sudden, violent rage. "E

outburst. The world swam before my eyes.

arms were surprisingly gentle as he scooped me up, his panic palpable. "Alexis!" he cried, his