Page 1 of Compelled Obedience

PROLOGUE

Kerri

“Ker-ri.”

The single singsong word was barely more than a dangerous whisper, the tone thick with the effects of tequila and beer. It was a dangerous combination for a man with a horrible temper. I’d seen it in action more than once, his savagery leaving bruises and cuts on my mother. She was so small, incapable of defending herself. I’d tried and failed, bearing scars for my efforts.

The fucker preyed on the helpless, enjoying every moment of tormenting them with whatever disgusting method he chose for the night.

And tonight, I’d become his prey.

He was furious, a deal gone wrong as so many of them had lately. When he didn’t get what he wanted or didn’t win at the tables, his moods worsened, his appetite increasing. I knew the signs, had learned years before how to avoid any contact.

But I’d been careless, and he’d known I was there watching him.

The creaking sound thrust my heart into my throat, my entire body shaking from repulsive apprehension.

I opened my eyes, taking several deep breaths. Please. Please. Please. Even without his announcement, I’d know the sound anywhere, the loose board only three feet away from my bedroom door. I held my breath, staring at the window as lightning flashed in the distance.

I could pray but no amount of wishing or hoping would get me out of this.

If I could just get through tonight, then we’d be free. Free to start a new life. Free from watching my mother wither away. And free from his repulsive touch. One more night but this time I would do it my way. I could do it. I was a strong girl, more so than anyone understood. I had our bags packed, money tucked away, a destination secured.

You’re strong. You can get through this.

All I needed to do was fade into the blissful music that kept me sane. I started to hum softly as I curled into a ball. Tears filled my eyes but I refused to allow the bastard to win. No one would ever hurt me again. I’d make certain of it.

When I heard a creaking sound just outside the door, I stiffened.

No. No. No…

Then he opened the door.

There was no lock. It wasn’t allowed. Even if there was, he’d break it easily, refusing to be kept in a cage. He was a dangerous man and that my mother hadn’t left him disgusted me. She was too weak, her only method of fighting him falling into drugs and alcohol. Sadly, I didn’t blame her. I glanced at the bed, thankful I’d had a premonition tonight would be the night. The lump looked enough like me I could get a jump, but my timing had to be perfect.

If I knocked him out long enough, I could get Mama and our things and get the fuck out here. Then he’d never find us.

“Well. Well. The perfect little doll likes to watch. Don’t cha? Did you get an eyeful, baby girl? That’s what happens to snitches and people who fuck with me.” He swaggered inside, closing the door behind him. “I think it’s time you and I had a talk. Don’t you?”

Fear tore through me, my heart racing. His breathing was labored, the sound rattled. I sensed his rage and desire, another dangerous combination.

Tonight I’d followed him, hiding inside a warehouse, unable to get away. And I’d watched him murder a man in cold blood. I’d held my breath as blood dripped from horrific wounds, gashes created by my stepfather’s intricate knife work.

I’d covered my ears when the man had screamed in agony, the sound still echoing in my head.

And I’d cinched my eyes shut when I’d seen the flash of steel from the machete.

Now I would pay the price for knowledge.

The door was closed, his footsteps drawing closer.

Then I heard the brutal man unfastening his belt.

“I think it’s time we got to know each other better, don’t you, my sweet little Kerri?” He moved closer, yanking the comforter away, the pillow molded in the shape of my body pitched aside. “What the fuck? Where are you, you fucking whore?” He spun around, his rage uncontrollable.

Then my fist connected with the asshole’s nose as soon as I lunged from the shadows. The crunch of bone from his nose shattering was satisfying, maybe more than it should be. The brass knuckles had been an excellent purchase. I took another swing, catching him in the jaw.

And down he went.

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