Deepa tried to calm her racing nerves as Ryan's car moved through the dark city streets. It was shocking how easily Axel managed to break down the door and force himself on her. If Ryan hadn't come, there was no telling what might have happened.
"You're okay now," Ryan murmured, keeping his eyes fixed on the road. "I won't let him touch you again."
Deepa nodded, anxiously clasping her hands in her lap. "Why...why is he always like that?"
Ryan sighed. "Axel was spoiled by the elders as a child. He was always told how great and fantastic he was going to be, so it gave him a warped view of reality."
"So he's an entitled sociopath?"
"Pretty much. When things don’t go the way that he wants, he soon resorts to violence. He's a bully and a coward. I'm sorry that you had to suffer through all of that."
"Thanks." Deepa leaned back in her seat, letting out a sigh. She could finally sleep in peace and not have to worry about a psycho sneaking into her room.
They pulled up in front of a cheap motel. There was a flickering neon sign out front and several cars parked haphazardly around the lot.
"The owner is one of us." Ryan climbed out of the car. "You should be safe here."
Deepa nodded, stepping outside.
Ryan took her hand and guided her into the building. They entered a small reception area that stank of wet dog. A middle aged man pulled out a key from behind the desk, giving it to Ryan without saying a word.
Ryan led Deepa into a hallway, passing several doors before stopping at one in the middle.
"Here we are." He unlocked the door and opened it for her.
Deepa walked inside, taking a moment to look around. The room was clean and well lit, with a double bed, a small TV, and a table with two chairs.
"The bathroom is through there." Ryan pointed to a closed door. "You can call the front desk if you need more towels."
"Thanks."
"Do you need anything?" he asked. "Some clothes or food?"
"No." She shook her head. "I'll be fine."
"Alright." He smiled. "I'll try and come by tomorrow night?"
"Wait." Deepa’s chest constricted with panic. "You're leaving?"
"Why?" Ryan curiously cocked his head. "Is that a problem?"
"I guess not," she muttered. "But...do you have to?"
Ryan laughed. "What's wrong? Are you scared of staying by yourself?"
"No," she huffed. "It's just...it's not easy being alone."
"Don't worry. I won't let anything happen to you."
Deepa's stomach did a somersault, her heart fluttering. She needed him to stay. How could she convince him to stay?
"Please," she said softly. "Please don't go."
"I don't think that's a good idea," Ryan murmured, his finger brushing along her cheek. "If I stay..."
"I don't care." Her fingers clutched the front of his shirt. "I want you to stay."
Ryan's eyes met hers, his fingers trailing down her throat. "But I have so many thoughts....so many.... questionable thoughts when it comes to you."
