Alaric knew I hated confined spaces. How dare he trap me like an animal.
I forced my heart to slow. Crying would do nothing. None of them deserved my tears—or my love.
I huddled in the corner, surveying the tiny room. Nothing could help me escape.
Evening fell, and a soft knock echoed from the door. I scrambled forward, yanking at the handle.
“Is anyone there? Please! Unlock this door!” I called desperately.
Silence answered at first, then Morgana’s mocking voice rang out.
“Oh, sweet Raven, locked up just where you belong,” she taunted.
I sighed. “What do you want? Are you done performing your little show?”
“Not yet,” she giggled. “I didn’t know Alaric could love someone so much that he’d lock you away, even knowing it’s your greatest fear.”
I ground my teeth, refusing to give her the satisfaction of seeing me break.
“If you have nothing of substance to say, then leave,” I snapped.
“Oh, darling, I’m just getting started. But for now… I’ll let you stew,” she purred, her footsteps retreating.
I exhaled, relieved. Darkness finally cloaked the room. I glanced at my hair, noting the small hairpin still holding it in place.
“Better than nothing,” I muttered.
Seconds later, I was still trapped, unable to unlock the door. Then I heard voices outside—two familiar, wolfish voices.
“Let’s teach her a lesson,” Ian hissed.
“Yes!” Rylan cackled.
Before I could react, screams tore from my throat as the floor beneath me seemed alive with crawling spiders and buzzing bees. They’d shoved a beehive through the small back window.
The spiders bit, the bees stung, and I cried out helplessly.
“Somebody! Help me!!” I banged on the door frantically.
No one answered—only the boys’ cruel laughter.
“Don’t try to mess with us next time,” they teased.
My right eye swelled, but I forced myself to work faster at the lock, ignoring the relentless stings.
Finally, the door gave way, and I bolted into the courtyard, screaming.
The twins glared, teeth bared, and claws extended.
“You never learn, do you?” Rylan snarled.
“I think it’s best you never return,” Ian growled.
They shoved me, and I stumbled, falling into the pool.
“I can’t swim! Stop!” I cried, struggling against the cold water.
But they didn’t listen. I saw them reach into their bag—and my heart froze.
Each of them held a pistol, aimed straight at me.
“Where did you get—” I began.