Page 147 of Piggy

But this moment is not:I got out of prison. Now, let’s talk. Patch things up.

“You’re wondering how,” he says smoothly. “Atticus gave the cops the recording. Meghan’s little confession.”

Oh Atticus.That sweet, trusting brother of mine. For once, I wasn’t aware of his heroics.

Just then, I flinch as Grayson’s hand brushes my cheek.

“I bet if I take off that tape,” he murmurs, “you’ll say anything to get on my good side. But I’ve learned not to trust that little mouth of yours.”

Oh God,is he making good on his promise? To kill me!

I’m sorry, I try to say, but it’s inaudible under the tape’s sticky bond.

“I warned you, baby. I’ll never let you go if I can help it.”

My chin trembles.

“Even if you run. Even if you don’t love me anymore.”

I shake my head because I didn’t mean that!

“Oh? Let me guess. That was a lie?”

I nod vigorously.

His thumb slides over the tape, feeling my lips underneath, slow and almost taunting. “But you’re a liar, Charlotte. And the worst part? I still want to hear every lying word you moan.”

I shake my head slowly, then squeeze his hands to show my remorse. After all, I am remorseful for my outburst!

He brings my hands to his mouth, dragging his lips along my knuckles. He breathes in deeply through his nostrils. “You’re my girl.”

His girl.

I beam at those words, hope bubbling up that my pleading eyes got through to him. Yes, he’ll free me.

“My girl... but also my prisoner,” he adds, dragging his knuckles down my neck. “And now, I get to train you my way. Keep you where you belong.” He smirks, cocky and cold. “I hated leaving you, baby. You’re too stupid to stay out of trouble without me. You didn’t even lock the patio door.”

Before I know it, I catch a flash of metal. Something thick slips around my neck.

A collar.

He steps back and holds up a silver tool. “Riveted on. Might as well be permanent on that pretty neck.”

His fingertip gives the leather a small tug and he whispers to himself, “Finally. She’s all mine.”

Just then, he rips off the duct tape, leaving fire in its wake.

“Ow!” I scream, covering my mouth to soothe the burn.

But my breath catches sharply.

I grab my throat as a searing pain explodes down my neck!

He shakes his head. “Tsk, tsk. It’s a dog collar. You scream, it shocks you.” He holds up a remote and clicks a button. I buckle over fast, falling onto my knees. “You don’t behave, then I’ll shock you.”

I pant, shaking and hurt.

He kneels beside me, gently lifting my chin up. The anger behind those piercing eyes fades, replaced with reverence.