A shout cuts through the haze.
I pull back, loving the sight of her lips—plump and swollen. From me. I did that. That rosy flush on her cheeks is mine too.
I pick up her helmet and hand it to her.
“Let’s go, Angel. We’re not done.”
23
I Don’t Belong To You
Emily's Search History: Can you develop Stockholm Syndrome in seventy-two hours?
Emily
Idon’tknowwhyI didn’t run.
I could have. Maybe even should have. And yet… when he left me sitting on his bike, freedom wasn’t what crossed my mind. I was thinking about the danger he was in.
The bike rolls to a stop in Eli’s driveway. He swings off first, then holds out a hand to help me dismount.
The leather clings to my skin, hot and uncomfortable, sweat sticking it to me. I understand why it’s necessary, but I really am not a fan.
“I’m going to shower,” I tell Eli as we step inside.
He just nods, smiling at me with that boyish innocence he always seems to have. But he’s not innocent. Not even slightly.
Getting the leathers off is a battle—pushing and wriggling them down over my too-chubby body.
That thought makes me pause.
I didn’t feel self-conscious when I put them on. Normally, I’d want to cry. I’d study my reflection and wish I were someone—anyone—else. But Eli makes me feel beautiful. Desired. Just a few days under his heated gaze have been enough to quiet my insecurities, even if only for a moment.
The shower washes away some of that softness I’ve been feeling towards him. I can’t let myself get caught up in his fantasies. He’s dangerous. He’s… well, he needs help. Professional help. More than even I can give.
When I head back downstairs, Eli’s nowhere in sight—but there’s a door open that usually isn’t.
I push it wider. A staircase leads down.
Indecision churns in my chest.
Fuck it.
I take a step.
The only sound is the thudding of my heartbeat.
What’s down here?
The walls are dark, yet the lighting is clinical, too bright.
At the bottom of the stairs sits a closed door with a green light beside it.
My gaze darts around, nerves racing up my spine. It’s silent. Empty.
A metallic taste fills my mouth.
I grasp the doorknob and twist.