Page 9 of Whiskey's Redemption

The next day, stopping at the deli around the corner from the hospital, I grab her one of her more disgusting, yet well-loved sandwiches and an ungodly large pickle spear. I know she’ll be ecstatic. I’ll apologize profusely to her for being such a hurt bitch when I left and we’ll be back to normal.

Parking the car close and passing through the front of the hospital unscathed, I revel in the quiet. At this early hour, it’s normally packed.

Heading across the grand entrance and toward the elevator doors, I’m still so surprised at the quiet, and honestly, a bit freaked. It’s only eleven-thirty. This place should be teeming with people.

Rounding the corner and heading to the door, my heart abruptly stops. Stepping out of the shadows, dressed in a pure black suit is someone I’d know anywhere, though I fucking wish I didn’t.

“Kaori,” he greets formally, yet harshly in my native tongue.

“You have the wrong person. My name is Carli.” As my heart thunders, I hold my ground.

“Kaori. No more hiding. You’re wanted home.”

Shaking my head, I purse my lips. “I’m Carli, and I don’t know who this—”

“Chinmoku,” he snaps.Silence.The firm and unyielding need to obey holds my tongue.

Stepping closer, coming out of the shadow and close enough to touch, I stand still, taking in his gaze. “You are to return by the end of the week, or your sisters will be relocated tootherfamily members.”

He walks away without another word. I’m aghast that they’d threaten them. No, I’m more than that. Aghast is a light and sweet term for how I’m feeling.

I’m afraid.

What I’m most freaked out about is that I felt like I did as a child—obedient and pliant.

Strength of will escaped me and I was once more that young girl that gave into others.

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