His words stung, more than I wanted to admit. But deep down, I knew they were true. My father had always been about the business first, family second. And right now, I was learning just how far down the list I really was.
The thug pulled out a knife and started twirling it between his fingers, his grin widening. “Now, we’re gonna have some fun. And when me and my men done with your body, maybe I’ll send a piece of you back to dear old Dad. See if that gets his attention.”
Fear froze me in place as he moved closer. There was nothing I could do. No one was coming for me, and I was completely at his mercy. What followed was a blur of pain and terror. He was methodical, taking his time, making sure I felt every second of it.
I lost track of how long it lasted. Hours? Days? It all blended together in a haze of agony. At some point, I blacked out, hoping I wouldn’t wake up again.
But I did.
When I opened my eyes, the room was empty. The thug was gone, leaving me tied up in the same chair. My wrists burned from the ropes, but I forced myself to move, tugging at the knots until I was free. My body ached with every movement, but I managed to get up and stumble toward the door.