Rj431484.mp3 -

"You’re awake," Sarah whispered, placing a tray of steaming tea and honey cakes on the nightstand. She looked radiant, her eyes wide and shining with a light that didn't quite reach the rest of her face. "I was worried you’d sleep through the storm."

She pressed a cold, lingering kiss to his forehead, her eyes reflecting the lightning from the window. "Drink your tea, dear. We have all the time in the world." RJ431484.mp3

The door creaked open. High-heeled footsteps tapped across the hardwood—precise, confident, and terrifyingly familiar. "You’re awake," Sarah whispered, placing a tray of

She picked up a silver spoon and stirred the tea, the clinking sound echoing in the small room. "I’m not keeping you prisoner, Elias. I’m keeping you safe . Don't you see? You're the only thing in this world that belongs entirely to me. And I’m never, ever letting go." "Drink your tea, dear

Sarah laughed, a sound like glass windchimes. She sat on the edge of the bed and began stroking his hair with a tenderness that made his skin crawl. "Oh, Elias. I’ve already handled that. I sent the emails. I told everyone you needed a 'spiritual retreat.' And they believed me. Why wouldn't they? I’m your sister. I know what’s best for you."