Chapter 8 The Alley

Dora's POV

I thrashed around desperately as King's strong arms wrapped around me from behind. He had caught me while I was searching the dark alley for my lost necklace.

"Let me go!" I cried out, trying to break free from his grip. But it was useless against his muscular frame.

King spun me around to face him, his eyes flashing with anger. "Just what do you think you're doing out here? Planning another escape attempt?" he growled.

"No, I was looking for my necklace!" I insisted, close to tears now. That necklace meant everything to me. It was the last gift my mom gave me before she passed away. Losing it felt like losing a piece of her.

But King didn't seem moved by my explanation. "Don't lie to me. You know you're not allowed to wander off on your own," he said gruffly. Before I could protest further, he began dragging me back towards the sleek black car idling nearby.

Derek sat in the driver's seat, one hand casually draped over the steering wheel. He glanced up when King shoved m