Page 96 of Rafe’s Future

“But you kept Rafe and me alive.”

“Until now.”

Lena’s stomach dropped as Henry stepped even closer. “I wanted you afraid. Looking over your shoulder. Every attack kept you on the move and your attention on Kozlova.”

“You’re insane.”

“Maybe.”

“Guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

His lips flattened into a hard, sinister line. “I’m going to kill you.” He said the words matter-of-factly, as if he were discussing something as mundane as the weather. “But first, I’m going to make your precious Rafe watch.”

“And then you’re going to kill him, is that it?” She kept her expression schooled and her chin lifted.

But on the inside, Lena was struck with a wave of fear for the man she so desperately loved.

“Now you understand.”

Lena gave a slow shake of her aching head. “Whatever you think you’re accomplishing here, you have to know you won’t get away with it.”

A hint of amusement filtered into his uncaring gaze. “Maybe not.” He snapped a finger toward the man standing outside the room.

The other man joined them but said nothing.

Lena watched as Henry faced him with an ominous order.

“Make sure the marks show up on camera.”

The man nodded, and Lena’s stomach grew tight as the muscled guy walked her way.

She barely had time to brace herself before the first blow struck. Pain exploded across her face. In her eye. Her head snapped sideways, and the room instantly blurred.

Another hit followed. And then another. Lena clenched her jaw, refusing to give him the satisfaction of a scream. The pain was brutal, but she had endured worse.

Somewhere beneath the agony, one thought remained clear.

Rafe.

Lena knew she had to stay alive. Not only for herself, but for him.

The beating stopped. Her breathing came raggedly, and she tasted blood. Henry came to where she forcibly sat, crouching down directly in front of her.

“Say cheese.”

A bright flash exploded and Lena flinched. Henry glanced down at his phone before wearing a sick smile.

“There. It’s been sent.” He stood tall. “I’m sure Rafe will want to print that one out. Might even frame it.”

Her stomach sank, but Lena refused to let this man see how deeply his words affected her.

“Actually . . .” Her voice came out rough. “I think you’re right.” Her watery gaze locked on his. “He’ll probably hang it on his wall next to your head.”

His smile vanished. Henry turned and nodded toward the guard. The next blow sent Lena’s entire world tilting.

Darkness rushed over her like a cruel blanket. Her last thought was a memory of Rafe. His face. His smile. The way it felt to be in his arms.

A moment later, everything turned black.