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It would be too easy to sleep and let exhaustion pull me under. Fatigue clouds my mind, and I run my hand over my forehead, pushing my hair back, but even in my weariness, I remain conscious of my surroundings, and as Barbi tucks me in, I run my hand over the smooth cotton sheets, taking in their texture, and using that to keep myself awake.
“Rest. I’ll be here when you wake.” She smiles down at me with the features of an angel, then moves to one of the chairs to watch over me until I’m fully asleep.
I won’t go to sleep, but I take advantage of a quick rejuvenating meditation that returns some of my strength.
Barbi settles herself in the chair, then tips her head back and stares out heavily barred windows at a beautiful sunset setting over the treetops.
I join her in observing the sunset, marveling at the shifting hues of the sky, transforming from vibrant oranges and pinks to the cooler shades of blues and purples.
The shifting light reveals the luxurious details of the room, from the intricate embroidery on the curtains to the soft velvet of the chairs. Tapestries on the walls depict scenes from the ancient Mayans when their civilization was at its height, but as the sun sets, the shadows in the room lengthen as the sun slowly fades, plunging us into darkness. I stretch and take stock of my injuries, fighting off yawns and blinking furiously to stave off my exhaustion and remain awake.
Despite my fatigue, I force myself to remain alert, using my sense of hearing to gauge the surroundings. The moment Barbi’s breathing changes to the soft breaths of slumber, I climb out of bed and explore the room while she dozes in her chair.
As I climb out of bed, I relish the sensation of the woven rug. My eyes adjust to the darkness quickly as I move silently around the room, taking in its opulence, looking for weaknesses to exploit for escape. I make my way over to the windows, taking note of the thick iron bars blocking escape, and gaze out at the night sky. The stars twinkle like diamonds, and the moon casts a pale glow over the landscape. Out there, it’s peaceful, completely oblivious to the chaos and danger that lurks in this place.
I don’t focus on the beauty of the night sky for long, although it helps to calm and center my thoughts. I turn my attention back to the task at hand. I scan every inch of the room for any potential escape route. That’s when I notice a small keyhole in the wall next to the fireplace.
I approach the keyhole with anticipation, feeling a surge of excitement at the prospect of finding a potential escape route. The small keyhole, however, offers no visibility as darkness obscures any view. Closing my eyes, I focus on my breath, attempting to steady my racing heart and trembling hands.
I need to get that key.
Lost in my task, I fail to notice Matilda’s presence until her voice startles me, causing me to turn around. Her amused expression raises my guard.
“Searching for something, my dear?” Her voice drips with sarcasm.
“Admiring the craftsmanship.”
Matilda chuckles. “Oh, don’t worry, my dear. I know exactly what you’re up to. I’m impressed. You’re quite observant. Artemus didn’t think you’d find that. I said you’d figure it out within the hour.” She turns her arm to glance at her watch. “It’s been four hours. So, not quite as resourceful as I thought. What a shame.” She shuffles closer, her bony hand gripping my shoulder tightly. “But I’m afraid you won’t be leaving anytime soon. Not until I get what I want.”
“I won’t cooperate.” My voice remains resolute, the taste of defiance bitter on my tongue.
Matilda’s hawk-like gaze shifts toward Barbi, peacefully asleep in the chair. “Are you sure about that?”
A surge of anger roars in my ears, but fear lingers there as well. The sour smell of sweat and anxiety makes my stomach twist.
Meeting Matilda’s gaze with defiance and spite, the room feels oppressive and constricting. “As long as she’s here, you won’t get anything from me.”
Matilda’s grip on my shoulder tightens, her fingers digging into my skin. Despite her small stature and advanced age, the sharpness of her nails and the weight of her body surprise me. “At least we know what will motivate you to talk. The girl stays. You understand my demands. Give me the information on Guardian HRS, and you’ll be free to go.”
“Never.” That bitter tang of defiance returns.
“In that case, I suggest you make yourself comfortable.” The floorboards creak as Matilda shifts her weight. “Artemus is out of the country, dealing with the aftermath caused by your organization. It’s best to rest as much as possible. Until then, you remain my guest.”
A chill runs down my spine, wondering what new torture she has in store for us. The musty, stale air brings a sour taste to my tongue and the bitter scent of fear. But I don’t let her see my fear. Instead, I narrow my eyes and stare her down.
“I won’t give you anything. No matter what you do to me.” I keep my voice rough and ironclad with determination.
Matilda’s lips curl into a wicked smile, exposing the glint of her teeth. “But I have no intention of doing anything to you.” She releases her grip and turns to leave the room. “Enjoy the remainder of your stay, my dear. By the way, we sealed off the passage behind the fireplace years ago. It won’t lead you out. Also, let Barbi know there are no cameras in here. If she wishes to shower, she is free to do so.” With those words, she exits. The door slamming shut behind her while my mouth gapes.
I turn back to the keyhole, my mind racing with thoughts of escape. Matilda is too smart, too cunning. And the guards are everywhere, watching our every move. Their footsteps echo in the hall outside. But she gave me invaluable information. She’s in no rush to get the answers she seeks.
A formidable opponent, she intends to break our spirits through time and captivity. Yet, the real torment won’t begin until her son returns. Until then, I have time to devise a strategy.
I won’t give up. Not when Barbi’s life is on the line. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and get us out of here. Even if it means playing Matilda’s twisted games.
TWENTY-FOUR
Barbi
