She smiled sadly. “I know he’s not here to share your pain, but I am. I won’t leave you.” Swivelling her chair to face the door, she held out her hand. “I’ll take his place. We’ll get through it together.”
My shoulders sagged.
What other choice did I have?
I’d made a promise to remain alive, waiting for Jethro to return. His sister was on my side. I had to trust her.
Silently, I followed Jasmine away from the Weaver quarters toward the dining room.
We entered without a word.
Jasmine’s wheels tracked into the thick carpet as we made our way around the large table. Unlike at meal times, the red lacquered room was empty of food and men. The portraits of Hawks stared with beady oil eyes as Jasmine guided me to the top of the large space where Cut and Bonnie stood.
They smiled coldly, knowing they’d won yet again.
Between them rested a chair.
Bonnie had said the first punishments would be easier.
Once again, I’d been stupid and naïve.
The chair before me had been used for centuries to extract information and confessions. A torturous implement for anyone—innocent or guilty. It was a common device but absolutely lethal depending on its use.
Did Bonnie suspect I was hiding something?
But what?
Was this her attempt at ripping out my secrets?
She’ll never have them.
My heart thundered faster. My blood thickened in my veins.
The chair wasn’t smooth or well-padded with velour or satin. It didn’t welcome a comfortable reprieve. In fact, the design mocked the very idea of luxury.
Every inch was covered in tiny spikes and nails, hammered through the wood. Seat, backrest, armrest, leg rest. Each point glittered in the late afternoon sunshine. Every needle wickedly sharp, just waiting to puncture flesh.
I swallowed hard, forcing myself to hide my terror. Jasmine was right. Their satisfaction came from my reactions. I was stronger than this—than them.
I won’t let you get pleasure from my pain.
“Do you know why you’re paying this toll, Nila?”
My eyes flew to Cut. He stood with his hands by his sides, his leather jacket soaking up the dwindling sun.
I shook my head. The power of voice deserted me.
All my courage at killing them vanished like a traitor.
“It’s because you must be stripped of your nasty plots and wishes to harm us. It’s because you caused the death of two Hawk men.” Bonnie shuffled closer, rapping her cane against the horrific chair. “Along with the repayment of the Third Debt, you must endure a few extras—to ensure you are properly aware of your place within our home.”
I flinched as Bonnie closed the gap and stroked her swollen fingers along my diamond collar. “You’ve lived in our hospitality for six months. The least you can do is show a bit of gratitude.” Grabbing a chunk of my long hair, she shoved me toward the barbaric contraption. “Now sit and be thankful.”
Jasmine positioned herself beside me, holding out a hand to help me lower onto the spikes. I thanked my foresight for wearing jeans. The thick denim would protect me to a degree.
Trembling a little, I turned around to sit.
Unfortunately, Cut must’ve read my mind. “Ah, ah, Nila. Not so fast.” Gripping my elbow, he hoisted me back up. “That would be far too easy.”
