Page 27 of Stiletto's Savior

“Please,” I murmur, “let this end quickly.”

I don’t want to suffer anymore.

I don’t want to endure the torment of nights filled with screams and shame.

A low groan escapes my throat.

Memories flicker—my mother’s face, twisted with betrayal.

The way she smiled as she led me into that world of darkness.

“How could you?” I grit my teeth, wishing I could choke the memory back down.

But it claws its way up, reminding me of the past.

Of being trapped. Of trust shattered like glass beneath my feet.

“Never again,” I breathe out. I never thought I’d find myself in a place like this again, reliving horrors I buried deep inside.

“Please…” My voice is barely audible, swallowed by the shadows.

Footsteps thud overhead, drowning out my thoughts.

They’re coming, and I need to prepare. Adrenaline floods my veins.

“Stay calm,” I tell myself. “Think.”

But how do I think when I’m terrified? When every second feels like a countdown to agony?

“This could be your chance to get out.” I curl tighter against the wall, wishing I could vanish into it.

I shake as more gunshots ring out.

The cold seeps into my bones, wrapping around me like a vice.

My stomach growls—an angry reminder of my last meal, which feels like a lifetime ago.

I don’t think I can remember what food tastes like anymore.

The floor creaks above me.

My heart races.

I press my back against the wall, wishing I could melt into it.

I scan the shadows, searching for any sign of movement.

The darkness feels alive, taunting me.

A chill runs down my spine.

I can’t let my guard down.

The memory slams into me like a brick wall.

Him.

On top of me.

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