106

Adalina

As I wake up, my head throbs, and my eyes feel heavy. I lie on a bed in a dingy motel room, and the air is thick with the smell of stale smoke and cheap cologne. Maxim sits next to me, his gaze fixated on my face with a sinister look in his eyes. I immediately shut my eyes, pretending to be unconscious, afraid of what he might do next.

“I know you’re awake Adalina. Open those pretty

eyes.”

I open my eyes but don’t look at Maxim. The room is

dimly lit by a single lamp, casting shadows on the walls and on the old and mismatched furniture. The lumpy bed I am laying on has faded floral sheets that have not been changed in a long time. The walls are yellowed and peeling, and the carpet is threadbare and stained.

Maxim strokes my head with his hand. “Don’t touch me!” I exclaim as I pull away.

“Now, now, Adalina. Don’t be like that. I know you’re no longer a virgin. I know you and Ni