These Vicious Games (Seattle Undeground)

Chapter 25

It didn’t take me long to sober up after she escaped my grasp. A few minutes on the ground and I had my hand to my ear, telling my driver to take her wherever she wanted.

As long as he got the address of course.

I was in no position to chase her. I tried and broke my coffee table in the process. With a tiny nap and sleep, I was able to reexamine the look on her face. The cold fear that made her gray eyes dull like concrete. I’d seen those eyes once before, and I never wanted to be in the position to see them again.

This entire time, no matter what I’ve thrown at her, she hasn’t looked at me like I’m… a monster.

So this morning, I wait. Wait for her to come out of the small home she lived in years ago. For her eyes to narrow at my town car before she turns away and begins walking the other direction. She doesn’t even have a fucking jacket on. It’s cold as fuck outside. Grumbling, I climb out of the car and walk after her.

“Little Bird.”

“Go away, Atticus.” She snaps with anger and a hint of fear.

I don’t know why that wounds me. I’ve wanted her to fear me this entire time and now that she does… fuck that shit.

“You know that doesn’t work. Now stop, talk to me.” I grasp her elbow and she jerks from me. “Listen here, baby.” Her breath hitches. “I could easily drag your small body down this sidewalk and toss you in my car. But I’m not. Don’t push me.”

She stops, turning so fast I almost collide into her but I grab her instead, bringing her close.

“Please, do not touch me.”

“What’s the difference today? Not that long ago I had my tongue in every one of your little holes.” I love the way she blushes. Cheeks staining red, but her eyes have not softened one bit.

“How could you?” She sneers.

“If you want me to demonstrate…” she smacks my chest. “Baby, I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about.”

“You… I remember.”

“Yeah? What is it you think you remember. And be real fucking careful with what comes out of your pouty little mouth next.”

“You raped me.”

The words are like a slap. Stinging every inch of my body, physically and mentally. “What the fuck did you say?”

She trembles in my arms, trying to push me away. “I…” she begins replaying the memory.

“You’ve got half truths. You’re missing a huge chunk of the memory. I didn’t fucking rape you. I gave up everything for you.”

Past

I couldn’t think about the last twenty four hours. How I got here, on this island, sold by my father for the hefty price for disobeying him.

Even if I had known then what I know now… I wouldn’t change it. She’s safe. Her fate is not the same as mine.

She’s not Ma’am’s fuck toy. I am. I took her position.

I am her sacrifice.

Present

“But I don’t remember anything after.” She squeezes her eyes shut, banging on the side of her head until I trap her arms. “Why won’t you tell me?”

“Why tell you some horrible things you don’t remember? You’re better off.” I release her, stepping back. “Now come on. It’s cold, your lips are turning blue.”

She crosses her arms. “And I’m just supposed to take your word for it?”

“Yes.” I snap. “Now get in the fucking car.”

I turn, hearing her footsteps behind me. “My mom is in prison. I plan to go see her.”

That makes me pause. “I’m going with you.”

“But.”

I shake my head, throwing the door open. “Get in.”