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“I… I don’t know. Maybe. I need some time to think,” I replied, a tear slipping down my cheek.
He nodded and gently wiped the tear away. “I understand. Just know this. One way or another, I’m gonna get you out of here. I promise.”
“I wish I could know for sure that you were telling the truth.”
He framed my face with his hands. “You’ll know for sure soon.” He let go and turned toward the door. Then he looked back over at me. “One more thing. When you’re free and safe, you never have to see me again if that’s what you want. I don’t want that, but if you do, I’ll accept it, and I’ll still get you out of here. I promise I’ll leave you alone after that.”
The expression on his face made it seem as if saying those words physically hurt him. It made it all the more believable.
“Okay,” I whispered, looking down at my feet.
“I’ll leave you to think things over, and I’ll come and see you again soon. Goodnight, Doll,” he said.
I didn’t reply, and I didn’t look at him as he left. I was too afraid I’d jump on him and kiss him, but I knew I couldn’t do that. Not yet. I needed time and space to think things over before making any decisions like that, or else I might wind up regretting it later.
It took a moment for me to realize I was still naked. I padded into my closet to grab a warm fluffy robe. When I came out, there was a knock on the door. Elias must’ve forgotten something.
“So much for giving me space,” I called out in a weak attempt at humor as I opened the door. My eyes immediately widened. “Oh.”
It was Tobias. “Hello, Tatum. You and Elias left very early this evening.”
“Yes, I… I still haven’t been feeling well after I spent the night in the forest,” I said, my legs trembling. “Elias made me see a doctor the day after, but she said it was just a bug. I guess it’s taking a while to clear up.”
That was actually true. I’d still been experiencing pounding headaches these last couple of weeks, along with stomach cramps and dizziness.
“I see. Well, I’ll have her check you out again. I’m sure there’s some sort of antibiotics they can give you to settle things once and for all.”
“Thank you, sir,” I murmured. I hope you get hit by a truck, sir.
He regarded me with heavily-lidded eyes for a moment. I wanted to shrivel up on the spot. Finally, he spoke again. “I spoke to Ms. Davenport earlier. She told me she suspects you are vying for the hostess position for the upcoming Artemis Festival.”
“Oh.” I didn’t know what else to say.
His upper lip curled. “As much as it pains me to say it, you’ve come out as a bit of a dark horse in the race. The vote was just ten minutes ago, and the men were in overwhelming support of you.”
My brows shot up. “Wait, what?”
He smiled thinly. “Congratulations, Tatum. Your wish has been granted. The next Artemis hostess is you.”