"He's right! This damn girl stays under our roof until it's over."
"Once results are out, we throw her out. Wherever she dies is her problem."
They dragged me by my hair. My vision went black.
When I woke, I was in the basement. My phone was gone.
At mealtimes, the door cracked open. I gathered every ounce of strength and rushed it.
But Ryan was ready. He shoved me hard. I hit the ground and my ankle twisted—the pain was blinding.
He tossed several steamed buns and a water bottle at my feet.
"Still alive? Gone crazy from jealousy?"
"Relax. Once I'm in, I'll let you out. Be smart and disappear. My record can't have a stain like you."
I lifted my head and smiled.
I couldn't wait to see that stupid face when he learned the truth.
I lost track of how many days I spent in that basement. The wounds on my foot and head had gone numb. The fever burned so hot even my bones ached.
As long as Ryan saw I was still breathing, he didn't care. I forced myself to hold on, fighting to stay conscious.
Finally, I got what I'd been waiting for.
The house had thin walls. The phone's ring was crystal clear.
Ryan's voice trembled with excitement. "Yes, yes—I'm Ryan Gilbert. The review results are out?"