Thirty-four

“Did they hurt you?”

That familiar voice whispered beside Freesha’s ear again, making her hair stand on end. The soft breath gave off faint heat, and Freesha shivered even more. This voice was so familiar that, even though it was dark, she could recognize the owner of it.

“K-Keyller? What are you doing here?” she asked, unconvinced. She intently stared at the man while he unlocked the handcuffs. His movements were expert, and the dark didn’t hinder him. She could see the rush in his silhouette, afraid he would get discovered.

“Freesha, haven’t I told you I would save you?” Keyller stared back at her after finishing his sentence. He finished unlocking the handcuffs, and he was standing beside the bed while helping Freesha wear his jacket to cover her body. Lucky for her, the men hadn't touched her undergarments yet. The dark didn’t obstruct them when their eyes met.

Freesha was the first to avert her gaze. Her trembling hands eased, and she said, “I told you I didn’t need your help.