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“Always.”

Leaving the mansion, I don’t fight the urge any longer, logging into the camera over Valentina’s room. If they knew what I was doing, they would most certainly know I am not being careful.

7

BRIAR

On my computer, a window pops up with a giant neon spinning circle over my keyboard. It casts a dark halo over my keyboard, my aching knuckles hovering over the keys.

I’ve thrown myself into deciphering Roman’s code. For someone like me, it should’ve taken a few hours.

We’re now on day three.

The only thing getting me through the aggravation is the torment of Valentina on my screen. She stands there, on my second monitor, stark fucking nude, staring at her hand. She’s looking at my last text.

Did I learn my lesson last time? Not at all.

I want more of her.

Who would win in a battle: Optimus Prime or Godzilla?

I’ve been left on read. Frankly, I thought the question was thought-provoking. It’s fine—everything is fine. She just needs more encouragement. Something to drag her out, interact with me. Talk to me.

Your punishment up yet?

She jerks on the screen.

Sunshine: How do you know about that?

Bingo.

I’m omnipotent.

Her hands move on the screen, and I tilt my head, studying them. They’re not jerks or tics. They’re graceful, as if there is a reason behind it.

I make a note to ask Hayes about it. Somehow.

If I ever get a break in this fucking code.

Sunshine: Yes. My punishment is over.

It’s sent hesitantly. She doesn’t know if she can talk to me. Bark at me, threaten me? Sure. Actually, talk? Not so sure. We’ll change that.

How’s your brother taking the loss of his second?

She jumps, looking over her shoulder. Going to the balcony door, she peers out. Poor, scared rabbit, she won’t see me there. Valentina must not know about the camera in her room.

Something vile twists in my gut. What was the point of it, if it wasn’t with her consent?

There’s no guilt for my stalking, no. I’ve already come to terms with my obsession. But someone else violated her trust. That I can’t abide.

Sunshine: What do you know about it?

Reclining in my chair, I kick my legs up, scratching at the crest tattoo hidden under the black tank.

Quite a bit.

Sunshine: Then you’ve heard it was done by the O’Brien captain.