Page 88 of August

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A rough arm clamped down on Gigi between her neck and shoulder, yanking her backward. She opened her mouth, her lungs ready to release a guttural scream, but a cruel hand slammed down over her lips.

Devastation struck her. No. She’d been so close. Had risked everything to escape—twice—and failed. Whatever they’d planned to do to hurt her was probably compounded now. She’d never get away again. They’d make sure of it.

“Fucking bitch.” The snarl made tiny bumps of apprehension break out on her skin.

She fought and twisted, but Marko lifted her off the ground and carried her into the backyard. Alec walked ahead of them, limping.

Marko stumbled up the steps awkwardly and dragged her into the house. Saltiness from his sweaty palm touched her lips and made her shudder. Vomit sat at the back of her tongue, and if it weren’t for the anxiety gripping her throat, she probably would’ve spilled her cookies.

“Take her back to the room,” Alec commanded, a gun hanging loosely in his fingers.

“No,” Gigi whimpered against Marko’s hand. She didn’t want to beg. Didn’t want to go down a pathetic, sobbing mess. But dear god. She didn’t want to die like this. Scared and alone.

She had nothing to bargain with. They wanted nothing but to please their boss, which probably meant killing her slowly and painfully. There was no way out.

When they reached the hallway, Marko released his hold and gripped her biceps instead. Drawing her back to his front, he brought his lips to her ear. “No one can help you now.”

The wisp of his breath over her earlobe sent a shiver racing over her flesh. She choked on a plea, but his fingertips bit harshly into her muscle. She winced, and he propelled her down the short hallway. Micha stood near the open door of the room across the hall from Gigi’s, her ears back and spine straight. Either she too was pissed at Gigi or she disliked the anger and tension radiating from her owners.

Marko tried the door handle and the wood didn’t budge. She cringed knowing the dresser was still blocking their entry. He sent her a fiery gaze, then slammed his shoulder into the door repeatedly. After several tries, and Alec’s help, they pushed the door open the remainder of the way.

“Get in there.” Marko shoved her into the room and her knees connected with the floor. Pain shot up and down her shins, but before she could stand, Alec seized her throat in his grip.

The air squeaked from her lungs as he pulled her high on her knees and brought his face down close to hers. “You’re going to fucking pay for running away, cunt.” His eyes glittered like ruthless stones, but behind the anger was excitement.

Oh, dear god. He wanted this.

He’d enjoy every minute.

Pain gripped the tendons and cords in her neck. Blood filled her face, and her cheeks tingled with the need for oxygen. Her chest contracted and a raspy grunt escaped from her lips.

Her vision waned and black dots blotted out Alec’s loathing smirk. He brought the gun to her face, the metal cool and menacing against her cheek. None of his words penetrated the thick fog closing in around her, but his tone held promise and rage.

Alec’s hand loosened and air rushed into her lungs, infusing her cells simultaneously. Gigi gasped and grabbed her throat. She fell forward on the floor, her face resting on the wood. Angry shouts sounded around her.

“You’re protecting her,” Alec snarled.

“No, I’m not. I don’t care what you do. But if you’re smart, you’ll wait to hear from Alvarez.”

“Once he’s done with her, she won’t be any fun,” Alec said with a snort. “Get out if you don’t want to watch.”

Alec’s fingers sank into her hair, dragging her across the floor. Gigi let out a scream of agony as she was tossed onto the mattress. Her back bounced on the springs, and her body registered what was happening before her brain did. She tried to catapult away, but Alec pinned her down.

Gigi sent a terrified glance around the room. It was empty.

A sinking sensation pulled at her organs. Marko had left. The door hung open, dangling freedom in front of her as if taunting her.

Alec’s hands were rough as he tore at her clothes. She kicked and fought, punching and scratching, but he only laughed as if wanting her to fight more.

He bent forward and sank his teeth into her cleavage. She screamed and jammed her fist against his head. He laughed again, pinning her hands down and lifting his face to smirk at her. Blood dripped from his lips.

Gigi’s head spun. She kicked and bucked, but he didn’t fall away.

Desperation filled her. She’d rather die than let him touch her. The sound of her shirt ripping was like a bucket of ice water on her face.

There was no escape.

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