Page 51 of Sadistic Retribution

“I understand, Father,” I mutter, restless to get back to the guys. “Can I leave, then?”

“Yes, go ahead. I'll be in touch soon.”

I leave, getting back in the town car. I finally let my breath out. The guys are going to shit themselves when they hear this.

Phoenyxx

“Nyx! Come on!” Valley’s voice filters to where I’m standing. I'm in the medical building, for some reason.

“Val! Where are you?”

She laughs gleefully. “Come on, bestie! Time to go!”

I start running through the building, looking for her. “Val! Where the hell are you?”

“Here, Nyx!” Her girlish giggle sounds like it’s coming from the gym area.

I rush to the gym, barreling inside. “Val? Valley? The fuck?”

The gym is empty—she’s nowhere to be seen. I walk around in a circle, confusion etching my brow.

Suddenly, male laughter comes from behind me. It's The Six.

“Where did you guys come from?” I demand. “Where's Valley?”

They all grin, stepping aside. My focus narrows to the weight bench in front of me, my bestie placed over it like a sacrificial lamb.

“No! No! Val! Valley!”

I scream, moaning Valley’s name. I can’t seem to wake up—I must be in Hell.

Frantic shaking finally rouses me, and I crack open my eyes. 3 is rousing me, a scared look in his eyes. He rubs his hand over my head.

Understanding what he’s asking, I answer him. “It was a nightmare. My best friend...” I choke on tears, and he makes a sound in his throat. “My... ex-boyfriends... killed her. It's why I’m here.”

He starts violently shaking his head, gathering me into his arms. He kisses my hair and rocks me. It's unbelievably sweet, but I’m too emotional to fully appreciate it.

He pulls back, his eyes hard. He makes a slicing motion across his neck with his hand.

“Yeah, she’s dead, 3.” I confirm.

He works his mouth like he wants to speak, but he can't. Instead, he gently lays me back down and holds me. I close my eyes, enjoying the comfort.

Then a vile voice breaks our silence.

“Wakey-wakey kids! Aren't you both adorable?” Skull stands over us, hands on his hips.

3 growls low in his throat.

Skull chuckles, shaking his head. “Get up, 11. You have a date with the viewing room.”

3’s eyes widen, and he holds me tighter.

“It’s okay, don’t worry about me. I'll be back soon.” I climb out of bed, but Skull grabs my upper arm.

“No, you won’t. Say goodbye to the cell block, little bird.”

3 screams—actually screams. The distorted sound chills my bones.