Chapter 7

Serena

I strained my ears, trying to catch the faint voices outside, and a sense of dread tugged at my chest. My arms and feet were firmly bound to the cold floor, while a piece of cloth was used to cover my mouth. Is there any choice for me other than being confined to this secretive room? What's even more distressing is that the ones behind this are the very people I called my family.

My life sucks and this is the evidence of it.

I wished to shout, to grab Damon's attention, but a harsh gag kept my voice imprisoned. My struggles against the unyielding shackles were like a fly buzzing against a closed window…useless and frustrating. I was stuck in this nightmare, feeling like a mouse trapped in a corner while a predator circled around. It was surreal, the way Damon had been taken in so easily.

Defeated, I slumped to the cold floor as Damon's car rumbled away, taking my last chance to alter my fate with it. The realization was gut-wrenching.

It’s over, and I lose.

Then, the door