The connection cut off and I woke in my bed, alone.
My pillow was wet, like I had been crying in my sleep.
She must be so scared.
I had to get to her. There had to be a way.
But how could I go there when no one would help me?
She’s not a priority,Elliot had said.
She was made to control you.
It was effective in its cruelty.
I won’t give up on you, Echo. I promise.
I sat up to the sound of the shower running in the darkness.
I stood and walked toward the open door, tugging at my sleeves. I heard the shower shut off. When Ash emerged draped in a white towel, I stilled. My hand went to my mouth. I bit back a sob.
“Ash,” I whispered.
He stepped out, his eyes confused. “What? Are you okay?”
I looked at the cuts and bruises over his chest and arms. Many were still raw and angry, though thanks to Sable they were closing.
One whole side of his torso had been black with bruising earlier. Now it was fading to a sickly green.
“Am I okay?” I moved to him. “What about you?”
He looked down at himself, completely calm.
“I’m healing though,” he said, his voice troubled, his brow furrowing as he looked at me. “Seph, why are you crying?”
My throat tightened. I hadn’t even realized I was crying until he said it.
I slid down to the floor. Ash knelt beside me.
“Seph, what is it? I don’t understand.” He frowned.
“I’m so sorry, Ash,” I whispered.
“For what? Did you do something?” He looked genuinely perplexed.
“For that!” I gestured at his bruised side. “You got hurt because I was so stupid—”
“Hey! You aren’t stupid! Don’t listen to K. He’s a wanker. This isn’t because of you.”
“Of course it is! You wouldn’t have even been out there if it wasn’t for me—”
“Seph, this is not the first time I’ve been tortured.”
I stared at him in disbelief. “What?”
He shrugged. “It’s happened a few times. Mostly when I was a kid. After a few days I’m fine again, so don’t worry.”
“After a few days—” Something twisted hard in my chest.
