Page 151 of Haze of Obedience

Whatever you do, don't hesitate.

I stare into the blackness of the night, full of anxiety, but determined not to become his victim again. My nerves are a rollercoaster, but I maintain my composure in front of Mateo.

The car stops, and I expect Mateo to get out, but he doesn't. "You aren't coming in?"

"No. I have other plans tonight. I'll see you tomorrow Zoe. Be concert ready by six."

"Okay."

The valet opens the door for me, and I make my way through the embassy lobby. The guards know me and don't make me give them ID or stop. When I get to the elevators for the hotel portion of the building, I freeze.

You can't do this.

You can.

You're hesitating now. You do that in there, and you'll die.

Better to be dead than to have him touching me.

You're a beautiful example of strength, and resilience, and courage.Dirk's voice again.

Somehow, he gives me the bravery I need. I go into the bathroom stall, put the knife in my hose, then smooth my dress over it. I go back to the elevator and push the button.

The penthouse suite needs a code, and I punch it in then try to calm my stomach as the elevator quickly rises. It's made of glass, and all of Mexico City is lit up, as if watching me.

When the door opens into the penthouse, my nausea accelerates, and I feel dizzy. Jonas comes out of the bathroom with a towel only wrapped around his body.

"Zoe." He eyes me, and I already know what he wants...what he expects.

"Jonas." I remove my coat and put it over one of the chairs by the lift.

"You've been gone a long time."

"Yes."

"That scumbag, Santiago, had you?"

"Yes."

"And what did he do to you?"

"Nothing. Made me sing."

He snorts. "Made you sing?"

"Yes. In the jungle for his men."

"But you weren't with one of his men when you were found, were you?"

"No."

"Who was he?

"Does it matter?"

"I ask the questions, not you."

Blood pounds in my ears.