8

Solenne 

I felt immense fear when Caelum located me, followed by relief at my rescue, but then a different kind of dread washed over me when he indicated I would face consequences for the deaths that had occurred. Who had died and why did he believe I was responsible? I had no connection to these men or awareness of their actions. 

For three days, I was confined in a bedroom while a man stood inside, staring at me with unwavering attention. He didn't speak, but his gaze was fixed on me the entire time. From time to time, I caught a glimpse of Franco standing near my door whenever a maid delivered my meals, yet like the guard watching me, he completely ignored my presence.

 After three sunsets and three sunrises, I finally made the choice to take a shower. Most of my time was spent lying in bed, feeling helpless and covered in grime and blood. I couldn't comprehend why it hadn't occurred to me to shower sooner, but it simply didn't. I presumed I was still in shock, and now I simply felt immense fear. Stepping into the bathroom, I closed the door and took a deep breath. I was aware that my guard was positioned just outside. 

I was grateful that there were bars on the only window in the room; otherwise, the guard would have had to accompany me into the bathroom as well. He instructed the worker not to take his eyes off me. I figured he interpreted that instruction a bit too strictly, but there was nothing I could do about it. I removed my red dress, recalling how I had torn the hem to create a bandage for Isaac's wounded shoulder. I sincerely hoped he was alright. 

He had looked terrible when I last saw him as Franco pulled me from the room. As long as he saw a doctor, he should recover, though he would definitely have a nasty scar. Pulling out the bullet had been both revolting and thrilling. It was the first time I had used my skills in a real scenario and the first time I didn't have to lie passively as someone I cared about was hurt. I had acted swiftly with steady hands and saved him, just as Isaac had shielded me from bullets. As the warm water cascaded over me, tears flowed down my cheeks, washing away the blood and dirt. The dark water swirled down the drain, taking the remnants of that horrifying day with it.

 "I hope Vincent isn't in trouble because of me," I prayed, as I did each day. He never mentioned it, but I assumed the intimidating older man was his father. Vincent was likely facing his wrath right now, perhaps even being punished for being involved with me. I still couldn't grasp why it mattered at all. Just because they came from wealth didn't mean they were superior to me. I had my own inheritance from my parents, enough that I didn't need to marry for financial reasons. 

Additionally, I was studying to become a doctor. I would be well-off on my own. I desperately wished someone would provide me with answers. Exiting the shower, I wrapped a towel around myself. I hadn't thought to ask for fresh clothes; I just wanted to rid myself of the memories of that night. Besides, I doubted anyone would even respond to my request. 

Oh no! I really hoped they didn't expect me to only wear this towel. With shaky hands, I brushed my hair and stepped out of the bathroom. Just as I intended to ask my guard for some clothes, I was met with piercing blue eyes surveying me, barely concealed by my towel. Unbelievable! I had spent three days fully clothed in this room, and now he felt the need to come in. 

"Where is my guard? " I inquired, my voice trembling slightly. I didn't want to feel afraid of this man, but he exuded a presence that made it impossible not to. He was at least a foot taller than I was and twice as broad, all muscle. His jet-black hair contrasted sharply with his olive skin, creating a menacing aura around his cold, empty eyes. He glared at me, seemingly furious. Why was he so angry with me? I didn't even know him. 

"Antonio is my guard. If I wanted to throw your petite frame onto that bed and have my way with you, he would merely observe," he stated, stepping closer, making me tremble with fear. This man was nothing short of terrifying. His fingers grazed down my arm in a way that only intensified my terror. What was he doing?

 "Please don't," I begged. 

I was fully aware that if he wanted to overpower me, I couldn't stop him.

 "I don't want your body, so stop looking at me like I'm going to claim it," he commanded. My brows furrowed in confusion. 

"Do you genuinely care about my opinion of you? " I blurted out, immediately regretting my words. He had shown me a moment of what I believed to be kindness, and here I was, acting defiantly. 

I suspected he wouldn't rape me, but I was quite sure he would strike me and eventually end my life. His hand grasped my neck, tightening just enough for me to feel pain. Well, this was it! I was definitely going to die. 

"You have a mouth that I have no patience for. "

 "I'm sorry. You're intimidating me," I managed to say.

 "Do you think it's wise to speak when you're afraid? Don't you find that incredibly foolish, kitten? " 

"Please, you're squeezing my neck," I gasped, my voice coming out strangled. He tightened his grip, and in a moment of panic, I let go of my towel to clutch his wrist. That was a grave mistake.

 I was now completely vulnerable and at his mercy.

He extended his arm, moving my body further from his so he could take in my whole body. My petite frame with large perky breast that had hard pebbles pointing right at him. God, this was beyond embarrassing. Then I saw the hunger in his eyes and how he licked his lips while fixated on my breast. He might say he doesn't want me, but his eyes were not in agreement.

A maid came into the room with a gasp. My eyes widened to her thankful someone came to help. That relief was quickly squashed as she adjusted her eyes to the wall with her mouth firmly closed. Caelum was right. No one would stop him from doing anything he wanted.

"You are really fucking stupid. Get dressed and be downstairs in twenty minutes." He turned to the maid and barked at her, "help her get ready!".

His hand released me and I dropped to the floor in a fit of coughs. He looked down at me with a chuckle. This asshole was really a fucking monster. How could Vincent be family with this demon?