Page 19 of Captured By Fate

I take a deep breath and head out of the bedroom. The opulent mansion is like a golden cage, lavish yet oppressive. Priceless artwork and ornate furnishings fill the wide hallways. Tall windows overlook the sprawling grounds outside.

I make my way cautiously through the winding corridors, wary of running into Jackson again. Part of me hopes I've guessed wrong and he's not here. My bare feet on the pristine marble floors feel as cold and unsure with each step I take.

But as I near the back patio area, the sound of masculine voices reaches my ears. I grit my teeth, willing my heart to stop pounding. I have to appear strong and unfazed.

Pushing through the double doors, the sun momentarily blinds me. As my eyes adjust, I see Jackson and Vince lounging at a table overflowing with food and crystal glasses glinting in the morning light. The remains of what was likely a lavish breakfast.

Both men look up at my entrance, eyes widening. Vince lets out a low whistle while Jackson simply smiles slowly like a wolf spotting prey.

I raise my chin and meet Jackson's gaze unflinchingly. Let him underestimate me if he wants to. I'm ready for whatever games he has planned. And I'm going to find a way to win.

“Sleep okay?” Jackson asks, and as much as I want to growl in reply, the only sound that emerges comes from my belly. “Help yourself.”

I shrug at his permission, reaching for a plate of eggs, still steaming on the table.

Just as I feel comfortable enough to eat, Vince speaks. “I couldn’t help but notice your friend last night. Marcy, was it?”

How dare he bring up my friend when I'm trapped here at his and Jackson's mercy.

I stand my ground, lips set in a firm line of defiance. "She's none of your concern," I state coldly.

Vince just chuckles, unfazed. "Oh come now, I just want to get to know her better."

His sly smile makes my skin crawl.

When Vince commands me to provide information about Marcy, I refuse vehemently. There's no way in hell I'll betray my friend to these snakes, no matter the consequences.

"You'll get nothing from me," I snap, meeting Vince's glare evenly.

Jackson chimes in casually, "She won't break down that easily Vince. Kelley here is as stubborn as a mule."

I bristle at Jackson's words even as I sense an odd reassurance in them. Does he somehow admire my loyalty? No, I can't let his mind games shake my resolve.

Vince suggests Jackson needs to discipline me further. At this, rage boils up in me. How dare they discuss me like an animal to be tamed.

"You lay one hand on me and I'll make you regret it," I hiss at Jackson. My hands curl into fists, ready to back up my words.

“Yeah, so much for that control you mentioned before,” Vince teases, with malice in his eyes.

I meet his gaze unflinchingly. "I'm not your toy," I state coldly.

Inside I seethe, but I refuse to show an ounce of fear to these snakes. My will is my own.

Jackson just grins wolfishly. "She'll come around soon enough. I have my ways."

His casual arrogance and confidence in dominating me make my blood boil. I glare back defiantly. "Don't hold your breath."

As I reach back to show him how serious I am, he grabs my wrist again, throwing it at my side.

“You better watch your mouth, Kelley,” he warns, his smile unwavering. “The only way out of here is by good behavior.”

I bristle at his condescending tone as if I'm some misbehaving child rather than his unwilling captive. Crossing my arms, I meet his smug gaze defiantly.

"I don't need lectures on behavior from men like you." My heart pounds with anger and unease, but I refuse to show weakness.

Amused, Jackson chuckles. "Men like me? Do tell, what kind are we?" His mocking endearment fans my fury.

Vince watches our exchange, visibly entertained. I bite back a scathing retort, reminding myself to be smart—I'm outnumbered here.

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