I gasp, feeling some strands break free, but I do not rise for him.
“Get.Up.”He pulls viciously, and unless I want all of my hair separated from my scalp, I know I have to stand.
Slowly, clumsily, I do, but he does not let me go.
He jerks my head to the side with his grip in my hair, then his entire hand covers my face, fingertips digging into my cheekbones, palm pressed over my nose as he moves me away from the door like this.
I do not say a word.
I do not cry out.
I do not fight him off.
If Sullen hears, I know it will hurt him.
I bite my lip so hard, the flesh gives way and the tang of iron invades my mouth.
“You and I are not through,” Stein says harshly, his lips near my ear.
I wonder if he could break the bones in my face with his hand alone.
I think again of his melting flesh.
A smile curves my mouth.
He jerks sharply on my hair once more, like he feels it.
Tears well up and blur my vision, but it’s only dark here anyway.
“And I will ensure you watch him die, you stupid child.”
The door opens at his back.
All at once, as if he has been stung, he releases me, stepping back. And his voice morphs into a kind, gentle tone, like a snake shedding its skin. “Come with me, Karia. He is not safe. Not now. I promise when his episode has passed, I will allow you to see him.”
I blink as I lift my head, my face smarting, scalp sore, side aching.
Von stands in the doorway, watching me.
My eyes connect with his gray ones.
I do not want to move, but I know I will only bring Sullen more pain if I stay.
“Karia,” Von says quietly. “Come here.”
I want to collapse into his arms.
I want to find Isadora, grab her and tell her everything.
I can’t do this alone.
I stagger forward on graceless steps.
I am close to Stein.
I catch the scent of his cologne and feel like retching.
I keep my gaze on Von, the flames dancing beyond him.
