Page 16 of Death

I fight Nolan every night, so he’ll shove me into the trunk. Because of my disobedience, I’m not allowed to sit on any chairs and have to kneel on the hard floor. My knees ache, and they're constantly purple.

Being locked in the trunk at night is worth it, though. I’m safe there from being raped, which is my biggest fear at the moment. It’s the one thing Nolan hasn’t done yet, and I fear it’s only a matter of time.

Nolan jerks off once a day, usually before dinner, and he always squirts his release over my chest. Afterward, I’m forced to endure it when he bathes me.

But that’s not the worst of it. My eyes drift shut when unspeakable humiliation coats my skin.

The past week, I’ve been degraded over and over again. I’m not allowed to do a single thing for myself. He even wipes my butt.

My face crumbles, and once again, tears threaten to fall.

I’m going to lose my mind in this house.

Grace.

I latch onto memories of my sister, remembering how safe I felt with her.

The sound of my phone beeping has my head snapping up and my eyes popping open.

Nolan glances at me, a smirk forming around his mouth. “Hmm, sounds like you have a message.”

Hatred for the vile man fills my chest until I can’t keep myself from glaring at him.

“Looks like you still haven’t learned your lesson,” he mutters before turning his attention back to the TV.

I clench my jaw, my chin quivering as I sacrifice the little pride I have left. “I’m sorry, Nolan. Please, can I read the message?”

He looks at me again, then lets out a sigh before patting the space beside him on the ugly brown couch.

When I move to stand up, my legs cramp horribly, and the chain rattles. I shuffle closer and slump down next to him.

He pulls the phone out of his pocket, and as he goes into the message, I greedily read the words.

Grace: This is my new number. How are you? Are you enjoying your travels? Do you need anything?

My hand flies up to cover my mouth, a sob bursting from me. Seeing Grace’s name and the short message shines a light into the darkness that has engulfed me over the past week.

“I’ll allow you to talk to her, but watch what you say. I don’t want to have to kill you today.” I nod quickly, reaching for the device. He pulls it away. “First, say thank you.”

I clench my jaw again, and leaning into him, I press a numb kiss to his mouth, my lips not moving at all.

When I pull back, there’s a pleased expression on his face, and he hands me the phone.

I read Grace’s message again before quickly typing my reply.

Ciara: I’m good. Don’t worry about me, I don’t need anything. How are you? Are you home? Sorry, I missed the funeral. I miss you!

I try to get in as much as possible, fearful that Nolan will take the device away at any moment. Luckily, Grace reads the message and responds immediately.

Grace: I didn’t attend the funeral. Uncle Gerry arranged everything. I’m still with Dominik in Slovakia.

While I begin to type out a reply, another message comes through from her.

Grace: I’m married to Dominik. The wedding was the morning after you left. But don’t worry! He’s actually an amazing person, and he treats me so well.

Shock shudders through me, and it feels as if another piece of my soul is chipped away.

Ciara: Oh my God! You’re married? I can’t believe Dad forced you again. I’m so sorry, but I’m glad to hear Dominik treats you well. I’m so sorry though. I feel rotten.