Page 16 of Marks of Rebellion
"You'd think after eight months, I would be used to the jungle noises."
"Did they have you outside all this time?"
"Yes."
"You've been sleeping on the ground?"
"Yes."
"Those—" He shakes his head for a moment. "I'm sure you're exhausted. Let's get a spot for you on the bed."
"The bed?"Please tell me you're going to be in it with me.
These thoughts aren't helping my predicament.
"Air mattress. It's not as good as the real deal but better than the ground. You will have to share with one of the other women. Interpol didn't send more than three beds."
Disappointment flies through me. I turn to him. "Where are you sleeping?"
"On the ground."
"That doesn't seem very fair."
"I had a bed last night before I flew in. It's fair."
I open my mouth then shut it.
"What is it, Flower?"
A little flutter flits every time he calls me Flower.
He calls all women that. Stop feeling special.
I cannot go back to Carlos.
"When will you find out where you're supposed to take me?"
"Tomorrow."
My chest tightens again. "I... I can't stay in Belize."
He places his hand on my cheek. I should remove it, but I want him to keep it there longer.
"Why can't you stay in Belize?"
I choose my words carefully. "It's not safe for me."
"Tell me what isn't safe."
"I can't discuss it."
A deep line forms between his eyes. His voice turns stern. "Vanessa, who is going to harm you?"
My lip trembles and tears well again. "Please. I can't get into it."
"Can you tell me why you were kidnapped?"
"No."
