I followed him through a hallway that echoed with every footstep. Above buzzed the lights, flickering faintly with a buzz. My trainers squealed on the smooth floor. I saw myself on a mirror-lined wall and hardly identified the girl peering back dark bags under her eyes, tangled hair, a jumper two sizes too big, sleeves strained and frayed. I seemed like someone from outside, not here. Opening a large steel door, Benedict entered what appeared to be a personal vault walls lined with shelves of records, safe boxes, and one heavy table in the middle. He drew out a big envelope and set it on the table. It thumped with a pleasing force. “This should be enough to cover her treatment.” My hand moved on instinct, reaching for it like a moth drawn to fire. But before my fingers touched it, he slid a contract in front of me. “You’ll sign this,” he said, tone matterof fact. “Agreement of service. Payment in labor. No exceptions.” I hesitated. Something didn’t feel right. But then I t
Last Updated : 2025-04-25 Read more