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“And that’s what I am?” I ask, confused.
“Yes and no.”
“What does that even mean?”
“You being here, it’s both business and personal.”
“Oh.” I’m not sure I fully understand what he’s getting at, but I get the gist. “Does she live here?”
“She does.” He nods.
“Why?”
“I think that’s a story for another day.” He turns, crossing the room toward the bathroom.
“What are you doing?” I ask curiously.
“Running you a bath.”
I’m grateful that he’s already in the bathroom before he can see my mouth pop open in surprise.
What the hell is with this man?
He abducts me. Keeps me locked in his fortress of stone. Handcuffs me to the bed and threatens to cut off my toes. And now he’s running me a bath...
I’m still scratching my head over this entire situation when he reenters the room a few seconds after the bath water kicks on.
“You’re going to want to soak for a while. It’ll help with your ribs.”
“Okay.” I’m really not sure what else to say. I swear this man is a walking contradiction in every facet of the word.
I seriously cannot wrap my head around it.
“Is it safe to assume you won’t try that little stunt with the boat again?” he asks, helping me to my feet even though I’m perfectly capable of doing so myself.
“I think that’s a safe assumption.”
“Good.” He turns, heading toward the door. He tugs it open, then turns back in my direction. “During the day, we’ll leave your door unlocked from now on. You’re welcome to do whatever you like, go for a swim, explore the island, but I do ask that you not go anywhere on the island without Niko. He’ll lock you in every evening after dark for your own safety.”
“Wait,” I blurt, shock and confusion no doubt written across my entire face. “You’re going to let me out?” I ask in disbelief.
“I’m hoping that you learned your lesson. Because despite what you may think, I don’t like the idea of you being locked in here all day. It’s not fair that you have to pay for the sins of your father. I, more than most, understand this well. But right now I need you, fair or not. And if there’s any chance for both of us to make it out of this alive, I need you to work with me here.” He pauses, and for the first time I find myself considering what might be at stake for him in all of this. “I know you have no reason to trust me, but I’m hoping you will. And in return, I’m going to try to trust you. So do me a favor and don’t make me regret it.”
“Why are you being so nice to me?”
“Honestly,” he scratches his chin, “I’m not sure I’ve figured that out just yet.” A small smile plays on his lips.
“Well, let me know once you do.” I pull my bottom lip between my teeth.
“You’ll be the first to know.” With that, he exits the room.
