I wish I had seen a ghost. It would be better than reality right now. But I don't want to tell her what I saw. I don't want her to know what might be coming.
Not for her.
I'll kill every fucker in here if they touch her.
But...she's a Marino.
Fuck, no. She isn't.
I squeeze her hand. "Listen, this is important. These menare monsters, but you have protection built in. You're a Marino."
"But I'm not."
"Youare. For all intents and purposes, you are. You are, anyway, but..." I drag in air. "But here, you are Marino flesh and blood. Anyone tries to bring up so-called evidence or hearsay, cut them down. Your father loves you and will come for you. He'll be more lenient if they haven't touched you. Your brother, too."
She frowns. "But?—"
I pull her closer, forehead to forehead. "Promise me. This is your armor, so stick to it. Be a bratty mafia princess. You know your family is rich and important."
"I know, but?—"
"Lyndall!"
"I can take care of myself. I'm a Marino, and my father and brother will fuck you up if you mess with me."
"Excellent."
Her eyes get big and shiny. "Even though they already did mess with me. This is the second time."
I shake inside. "Did he touch you the first time, when he found out who you are?"
She frowns. "No. I think he was figuring out how to do a trade."
I make myself smile brightly, but her eyes narrow like she can see through me.
She probably can. Lyndall's smart.
I hug her. "Then I'm betting you're a bargaining chip now. He'll try to make a deal."
"And what if it doesn't work like that?"
"Then we'll think of something, okay? We are staying right here, together."
I hope we aren't staying right here, though. I hope Enzoand his cavalry turn up soon. But if not, then...she'll be the one leaving safely. I'll make sure of it.
The sight of the two men raping poor Gretchen twists in my head. Am I a monster for not trying to get the gun?
I don't know. And it is something I will have to live with. I will try to get her out, too.
I realize with horror I'm not including myself in these little scenarios. Because this man wants to marry me or keep me like my father promised.
And if it means these two women getting out, I'll stay.
But my mind and stomach rebel.
I blocked Squish out, but thoughts of my baby come rushing back. And this time, I race to the bathroom to throw up.
When I'm done, I lie on the cool tiles as the terrible truth hits me.
