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“No, I really don’t, but I’m just letting you know you won’t make it out. Your chances are higher waiting for the Slades to save you,” he admitted softly before stepping into my cell. “In all honesty, this entire plan was a shot in the dark. Matteo and Mario are being reckless.”
There really wasn’t much space in here, and with him standing in here, the tiny area was suddenly beyond cramped.
“Here.” He sat the plate on the bed by me before turning to the bucket.
“Sorry.”
He scoffed as he bent over to pick up the bucket. “Apologizing for normal bodily functions is stupid. You can’t help that there’s no toilet.”
“Still, it’s not a pleasant job,” I mumbled as he lifted the bucket up.
“I’ve had worse.”
I frowned at that as he exited the cell and locked it behind him.
“How do you take your coffee? Or would you prefer tea?” he asked as he paused before the stairs.
“With creamer, please.”
He nodded before heading upstairs, and I eyed the plate, smiling softly at the avocado toast with salt and pepper sprinkled on it. Far from what I’d have expected. Maybe foul oatmeal, but certainly not avocado.
I wiped my hands on my pants, hating that I couldn’t wash them. It wasn’t like I’d gone number two though, and food was beckoning me as my stomach grumbled.
I was not privy to pride while here.
I dove in, enjoying the toast and having nearly polished off one whole piece by the time Thomas returned with my bucket before he went back upstairs.
When he came back, I’d finished my toast, and I happily accepted the hot coffee he offered.
“Thank you for being kind,” I said as I drew in the welcome aroma of the brew.
“It’s a cruel world out there, why make it even worse?” He sunk back into his seat, sipping his own coffee.
“Why not leave the family?” I asked after a moment. “You clearly don’t agree with all this.”
“Loyalty is everything. If I left, they’d probably hunt me down and kill me to show everyone what happens to those who turn their back on the family.”
“What kind of family would kill you for wanting to live your own life, free from the madness?” I shot back, and he just shrugged, although his brows had knitted together.
“What kind of woman would want to step into this world willingly?” he retorted as he nursed his mug.
“I didn’t step into it willingly, they rescued me, showed me a better life than the one I had,” I murmured.
“I know. And the fact that this life was better than your last, I feel sorry for you. Your fiancé got what was coming to him.”
“I know,” I murmured as I sipped my coffee, grateful for the warmth flooding through me from it. It was far too chilly in this basement.
“But you chose to stay. Did they really treat you that well?” He gave me a curious look, and I just nodded, not wanting to delve into the details.
“They were kind despite who they are. Made me feel… safe,” I admitted.
“Not terms I’d expect to hear of made men,” he said truthfully. “But at least they stick to their code and beliefs,” he added softly.
“Your family has changed a fair bit, huh?”
“Yep. Sometimes I wish I hadn’t been born into it. This life isn’t for everyone.”
“Guess we’re both trapped through no fault of our own,” I mused, and he cracked a smile.
