Page 16 of Taken By Him

Once back in my room, I sit on the edge of the bed. How did he know how what he did affected me?

Everywhere I turn there’s an enemy. Even when I look in the mirror.

My body betrays me.

I open my bag and change into a pair of pajama shorts and a tank top. Catching a glimpse of my bare ass in the mirror, I sigh. It’s red, but not as bad as I thought it would be.

After I throw my hair up into a bun, I climb under the thick covers of the bed. I wipe away tears. I won’t cry because of this. I just won’t. This is my home now, my bedroom, my life.

No, this may be where I live, but I’ll never call this my home.

Chapter Seven

Kasia

The house is quiet in the morning. When I slip downstairs, it’s empty.

“Good morning!” Margaret greets me when I enter the kitchen. She has a large smile and a plate of pancakes and sausage for me.

“Is Dominik here?” I ask, settling into the breakfast nook. The home of my humiliation. Does Margaret know what he did to me? Would she have stopped him if she’d seen?

“No. He left an hour ago. He’ll be back for dinner, though.” She puts a small pitcher with warmed maple syrup on the table.

What am I supposed to do all day alone in this house? At home I had my computer, my phone, my life.

“I think I’ll go to the bookstore if there’s one around here. Is there a car I can use, or can someone—”

“That’s not a good idea.” Margaret shakes her head and goes to the sink. Of course, he would tell her I’m not allowed to leave. I’m not a prisoner, but I can’t go anywhere.

I finish my breakfast and bring my plate and silverware to Margaret.

“I can help you today,” I offer.

Again, she shakes her head. “No, no. I have all this handled.” There’s a beeping sound and she scurries off to the iPad on the counter. After a few swipes there’s a live feed from outside playing. “Ah, looks like the men are back with your things.”

“My things?” I slept later than I’d hoped to, but it’s still morning. How early had they gone to pick up my belongings?

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