A Vow Lost to Time
I clenched my jaw so hard my teeth ached, forcing myself not to scream, not to give him the satisfaction.
Because I knew—if he saw my pain, it would only thrill him more.
"How's that, huh? Feels good, doesn't it?" Nicholas laughed, unhinged. "Come on, bark like a dog. Maybe if I'm pleased, I'll let you die quickly."
I ground my teeth, holding back.
He yanked the blade free, then plunged it into my arm again.
This time, a low groan slipped out before I could stop it.
"That's better," he hissed. "Pain gives you value."