Page 40

Hailey

My teeth tear into the pillow as I ignore the strobing light and siren. I bite down hard on the corner and yank, creating a small hole. Ripping open the outer layer reveals the foam underneath. The siren seems to grow louder as I continue to bite and pull until I have two small chunks.

Perfect for my ears.

I discard the pillow and press my DIY earplugs into place.

My hands feel like ice cubes against my ears, and it takes several attempts to position them—the cold has stolen my fine motor skills.

I cackle, too traumatized to sob anymore, when I realize they barely muffle the noise.

I don't know what possessed me to try this in the first place, but I was sick of sitting around, waiting.

They turn off the alarm and strobe light when I sit still again.

For a moment, it seems I've gotten away with this tiny act of rebellion. Then the door opens .

I recognize Sean Sullivan, the guard. I always suspected he had a crush on me, catching him staring constantly.

But I think he's just a flirt—rumors circulate about him hooking up with other women on base.

These casual relationships are forbidden, though the women always take the blame when couples are caught.

He scratches his stubble, studying me with curiosity. "Hailey Burke. I never suspected you'd be such a troublemaker," he drawls, his eyes dropping briefly to my chest.

I stay quiet, hands clenched in my lap. I expected a slap or some violence for the pillow stunt. I know Sean's reputation with women, but this behavior isn't normal for someone of his rank. Prison guards are supposed to be cold and impersonal.

He crouches to eye level and even smiles before plucking out my earplugs.

"How long have I been in here?" I ask. Though I know his intentions aren't pure, I want to exploit his unprofessional attitude.

He stuffs the foam into his pocket. "Oh, you know I can't tell you that, princess."

I mask my disgust with a smile. "Figured I'd ask," I shrug.

He brushes my knotted hair from my face. I close my eyes, pretending he's Max.

A firm hand shakes my shoulder, jolting me awake.

I blink, disoriented from falling asleep so quickly.

He points at me, maintaining that flirty smile. "Don't you fall asleep on me, Hailey."

"Sorry." I force a laugh and bat my eyelashes, trying to remember how to flirt. "Sean? Think I can get something to eat?"

He inhales sharply. "That's not my choice to make, angel."

These nicknames are going to make me vomit.

He stuffs his hands in his pockets and lingers by the door, giving my body a creepy once-over before leaving.

The encounter was so strange, I question if it happened. His obvious soft spot for me leaves me torn between terror and hope.