Page 27

Chapter 27

Jay

A foghorn blaring snapped me awake. I was on my feet before the upstairs door opened, once again flooding the basement with light.

Its a warning . Every time the foghorn blasted, the door opened and we had visitors.

Maxwell stood and we walked to the front of our cell, just like last time.

Four rifleman flanked Roman. When he saw the bags on the floor he tsked. “I see you failed to appreciate my generosity.” He kicked the bags out of his way. “Did you not like the selection, or is it because you don’t trust me?”

“What do you think?” I asked, crossing my arms as I stood near the cage door. I moved in front of Maxwell, but she shifted beside me.

He laughed. “I suppose I can’t blame you, but you really should’ve eaten your breakfast when you had the chance.” He nodded to Franks. “You’ll need your strength for the day’s activities.”

Breakfast? Was it morning already?

Franks stepped forward, pointed at the far corner, and ordered, “Stand in the corner.”

Fuck . I figured they were here for one of us, but hoped they’d take me first. I took my time, glaring as I walked backwards, following his orders.

He stared back at me the entire time. His sick smirk did nothing to calm my already frayed nerves. When I was where he wanted me to be, he said, “Put your hands on your head.”

Having no other choice, I laced my fingers and put my hands on the top of my head.

“Move, and we shoot your partner.”

I had zero doubt he was bluffing, so I bit my tongue and stood perfectly still. Every cell in my body wanted to say something, to test my limits. But knowing Maxwell would pay the price forced me to be on my best behavior.

He pointed at Maxwell. “Face the back wall and put your hands behind your back.”

She complied, her jaw clenched and her hands fisted.

“Remember, if either of you move, we’ll shoot your partner.”

“Sir, yes, sir,” I barked. Maxwell didn’t answer.

I expected him to tell me to turn around, but then again, Roman would enjoy forcing me to watch Franks cuff Maxwell. She stood stock still while he did it. When he grabbed her arm and pulled she didn’t move, saying, “You told me not to move. ”

That a girl, show them how well Marines obey orders.

He shoved her, almost knocking her off balance, then continued pushing her until she was outside the cage. There was no point in trying to fight.

Too many guys with guns.

Is that a fucking cattle prod?

I prayed for Maxwell.