en there to begin with. Wilbet came hurrying down to meet me, his tie n

ng back and settling into the seat. Wilbet shut the door with a soft click as the driver wordlessly pu

ur of colors. I opened my eyes to admire th

broke th

ou doing wit

him an answer. Maybe if I ignored hi

e car in a slow, deliberate rhythm. He

r this time. Too quiet.

just co

ed to the side, the sting blooming hot against my skin. For a moment, everything went

had happened. "So you know who that man was

ling myself not to cry. Wilbe

to breathe, I

m. "A very powerful man. Some say he has affiliates with the Mafia

my palm, feeling my nails

rabbing my face. "Tell me, dea

was code for Did yo

wed. "No. N

back with a satisfied smile, running h

lbet didn't speak, and I didn't dare

prawling mansion, my sto

e stepped out with ease before turning to my side. I stepp

that led to the main door. The house was dim, with no lights on save for the huge h

of the stairs when

you?" His voice was quiet agai

After all, he disappeared with Emile for the whole night, yet you didn't see me slapping

sing a kiss to my temple. I shuddered with disgust, as

ady to just call it a night, as long as I didn'

at my hollow reflection. My cheek throbbed from where Wilbet had hit me earlier in the car, the outline

ished I could just lie down and soak in the tub, but Wilbet had al

bed. I pulled down the sheets and got in, remembering how I used to love reading before be

squeezed my eyes shut, willing him to go away. But he didn't.

overs and rubbe

u know," he said in a casual tone, a

said you were just discussing? I'm guessing that discuss

ot giving hi

ard, sharp and unforgivi

mind you what your p

abbed me. I had learned a long time ago

lk sheets were cool against my skin, but it w

breath was hot and damp against my neck-it was all a routine now. Keep

quickly. I

ng in satisfaction. He didn't spare me an

of the bed, slipping off and making my way to the vanity. Every

ek. The routine was as familiar as breathing. I cleaned

s hot tears rolled down my cheeks. My sobs racked my body. I hate

ssibilities until I gave in and