Page 61 of Rescuing Rebel

“Buyers are eagerly adding their names to the list. They await your Angels with great excitement.” My heart sinks as Kaufman preens about his new product line.

“I’m happy to hear the response is good.” My response is rote and automatic, not daring to show any hint of pleasure at my accomplishment. “I will ensure your Angels do not disappoint.” Revulsion burbles inside me at what I’m forced to do.

Kaufman gives me some much-needed personal space. “You believe they will adhere to the conditions placed upon them?” His voice is soft but stern; there’s no denying the underlying threat in his words.

I swallow hard before answering him. “They are grateful for this—this opportunity. They’re hesitant but willing to please.” My thoughts flash to the terrified young women I’m grooming to become his bevy of willing slaves.

I’m a monster.

“They know what will happen if I’m not pleased?” His gaze narrows.

“Yes.” My throat tightens as a chill creeps down my spine. “They know the punishment for disobedience.”

Revulsion surges within me, but I choke it down, burying my outrage deep. It’s becoming harder and harder to stomach the moral atrocity I commit on a daily basis.

Kaufman takes my chin in his hand, forcing me to meet his gaze. His icy cold stare sends a shiver down my spine. “You’ve been gifted a few extra weeks. See that their training continues. I expect nothing but success. Failure is not an option.” He releases me abruptly, his demand for perfection ringing loud and clear in my ears.

“Understood.” My heart sinks, but I reply without hesitation. I dip my head demurely, seething inwardly at this monster.

“Rebel…”

“Yes?”

He watches me for a few moments before speaking again. “I find your devotion—refreshing.” His lips twitch into a wolfish smile. My pulse pounds in my ears as I swallow against the lump in my throat. Kaufman claps suddenly. The sound cracks through the empty hallway. “Enough chatter. I’m hosting dinner for our guests. Your presence is required.”

“Of course.” Bile scorches my throat.

I have to attend dinner with Kaufman while Ethan watches.

Just kill me now.

“Dress nicely for me. I wish to make a point.” Kaufman’s smile turns predatory, eyes raking down my body. His fingertips graze my cheek, and revulsion slithers within me.

Flaunting me before Ethan, like a trophy, is meant as a vulgar display of power. Kaufman may not know the history I share with Ethan, but he’s no fool. He senses something, and that’s too much.

Tonight, I must smother my emotions and play the role I created willingly.

“I look forward to it.” My pulse thunders, and my breath quickens. I will play my part.

Smile coyly. Laugh lightly. I’ll pretend I belong to Kaufman.

I’ll do it all in front of Ethan while watching the betrayal and pain in his eyes swell. I’d say it’ll break his heart, but I did that when I walked away.

If he doesn’t hate me for that, he will after this dinner.

Finally, Kaufman appears satisfied with this display of power over me. He turns without another word and strides out of sight, leaving me standing in that cold hallway, feeling violated and thankful it wasn’t worse than it could have been.

Perspiration beads across my brow. The thought of being paraded before Ethan is unbearable, but I have no choice. Kaufman holds all the cards, and I’m barely playing his twisted game. I run to my quarters, slam the door behind me, and lean against it, hyperventilating.

That’s when I feel it.

A presence in my room.

TWENTY-TWO

Rebel

Slowly,I make my way across the room, scanning every corner for any sign of danger. Then, I catch a whiff of something familiar that sends a shiver down my spine.

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