Page 17 of Controlled Chaos

“Your stepfather is planning a new addition to the facility. You know he can’t help himself from wanting to help the masses.”

The need to jump from the golf cart and run back toward the boat dock nagged my brain like a mother-in-law would hound a son-in-law for not living up to expectation. The tension in my neck muscles was strung tight with the need to make a run for it. But I wouldn’t, at least not yet.

Edward entered the compound and pulled up and stopped in front of a huge main building that had several smaller buildings surrounding it.

There were people in the distance, doing what looked to be yoga. Behind them looked like some type of field that was being farmed. In the opposite direction, there were more young people, wearing ankle trackers. The place looked like a mixture between a military compound and a commune.

I didn’t know where to look first.

Porter jumped out of the back and went to grab our bags, but Edward stopped him.

“Leave those with me. You two are staying in the guest bungalows that were built for visiting family members of our staff. I’ll drop these off on my way. But your mother is in the kitchen and wanted to see you first.”

“Thanks, Edward.”

Porter took my hand and lightly squeezed my fingers as we approached the main facility doors.

He leaned in to whisper, “I know what you’re thinking. We’ll deal with it when we’re in private.” He pressed his lips to my cheek.

I’d expected some type of retreat atmosphere, where they were teaching love and light. It was an impression enforced by the activities I’d seen outside. Inside was a whole different game.

Two men stood in the main lobby with guns strapped to their sides. Women with tear-stained faces were being led out the door in a single file line.

“Therapy is a requirement,” Porter whispered.

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