Page 52 of Wrath

I watch Pearl lying in wait, noting that she doesn’t look nervous like Summer did. The familiar sound of chains causes me to jump with fright, and I lower my head again, praying it isn’t Wrath. I sigh in relief when I peek up and see Zeus practically pulling his guard towards Pearl.

“Can I ask a question?” I whisper.

Silas nods but looks mildly irritated and keeps his eyes on the scene before him. “Why are they so . . . feral?”

“They’re given medication, and they watch things to stimulate them. They need to be ready to fulfil their duty.”

I glance up just as Zeus braces his arms either side of Pearl. It reminds me of the caves and what I had to go through, instantly causing me to feel sick. Pearl groans, but I keep my head lowered, fear gripping me until I can hardly breathe. Avawhispers in Silas’s ear, and he takes my hand and squeezes it. “You need to watch,” he mutters. “You’re making me look bad.”

“I’m sorry,” I murmur, tears filling my eyes at the sound of grunts and breathy moans. “I can’t help it.”

His arm moves around my shoulder and his hand goes into my hair, taking a firm grip and tugging my head up. “I have a wonderful evening planned. Let’s not ruin it.” I swallow the lump in my throat and stare at the statue of Jesus behind where Pearl and Zeus are in ceremony. “Good girl,” he praises, and I shudder with repulsion.

It feels like it goes on forever, and just when I think I can’t take another second, Zeus roars and Pearl begins to sob. At first, I think it’s from the pain, but as she sits up, I see they’re tears of joy. I glance over at Summer, who catches my eye and offers a weak smile.At least it’s over.

We gather outside, and the forefathers stand off to one side to talk. Ava smiles wide as their wives approach and purposely stands in front of me so I can’t be part of their conversation. That suits me—I don’t want to see my mother and pretend we’re all happy.

Summer joins me, and I notice her hand placed carefully over a small bump. “How are you?” she asks.

“I’m okay,” I reply. “You?”

“Okay.” Then she smiles sadly. “Not okay, actually. Scared. Father is meeting with Silas tomorrow to discuss a marriage between me and one of his sons.” I gasp. “Are they that bad?” she asks, panic lacing her words.

“No,” I lie, forcing a smile. “Of course not, I’m just surprised.”

“I always thought he’d choose Lucas Perez. At least he seems nice.”

“Try not to worry too much, Summer.”

“I’m starting to think that what you said before, well, you were right.”

“Shush,” I hiss. “If anyone hears you . . .”

She smirks. “I used to say the same thing to you. Now, all of a sudden, you’re shy about your true beliefs?”

“I’m not shy, it’s just difficult with prying ears. Ava hates my guts and will do anything to get me into trouble.”

“I don’t want to bring my baby up here,” she whispers, her voice breaking as tears fill her eyes. “I’m sorry for the things I said. I was upset, but I need you.”

I slip my hand in hers. “I’ll think of something. I promise.”

Silas leads me through the caves, and I try to keep up in the stupid heels he made me wear until we break out into a large area where lots of other men are. I spot the occasional woman, but there are mostly men. And there, in the centre, is the fighting ring. I glance up to where the cove is in the cave wall, wondering if Jaycee and Anna are up there watching again.

“What is this?” I ask innocently.

Silas smiles. “I’m taking you to your first fight.”

I look around. “Fight?” I repeat. “I didn’t think I was allowed to this sort of thing.”

“I make my rules,” he says proudly. “Besides, it’s a big night,” he adds. “Your father thinks his warrior is declining.”

“Wrath?” I ask on a gasp.

“Yes. They all do eventually. Your father didn’t use him wisely.” He looks gleeful about this. “They need equal fights to ceremonies,” he explains like he’s some expert. The sickness in the pit of my stomach returns. “So, Wrath will fight for his life tonight.”

“Life?” I whisper, looking around the room in the hope I’ll catch a glimpse of him.

“Yes. He’ll fight up-and-coming warriors until he beats them all.”

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