Taken by Lies (Truth or Lies 1)

I step forward and pick up the shirt, and quickly pull it over my head. It’s warm like Enzo, smells like salt and sweat, and covers most of my body. I don’t hate it against my skin, but I don’t love it either.

“Who are you?” I ask the two men.

“I’m Langston.”

“And I’m Zeke.”

Enzo motions with his head, and both men disappear without a command.

Damn him. I forgot he can practically read my thoughts.

A knock on the door startles me.

Enzo’s nostrils flare as he looks behind me. I turn as Dr. Gould enters.

“Miss Miller, you really should return to bed. I won’t examine you now if you need time, but I would recommend an exam sooner than later if you want to ensure you heal a hundred percent back to your previous state.”

Enzo rushes past me, and hurries the doctor out of the office—leaving me behind. I fold my arms across my chest as the cold nip returns. I’m used to being cool, I thrive in it, but the shakes are different. It reminds me of how weak I am.

I try to distract myself by inspecting the office. But there isn’t much to look at. A large desk with multiple chairs all made of modern materials. White walls and gray floors. And of course a stellar view of the ocean from behind the desk.

I suspect every room in this house was built around the spectacular views. Views I long to erase from my head.

And then I hear their voices.

“I did what I thought was best to care for the girl. She needs immediate medical attention. It can’t wait!”

“I hired you because you were the best. That you wouldn’t hurt her, but it’s clear you couldn’t even do that right.”

Muffled voices continue.

“You’re fired.”

My mouth falls open as Enzo returns to the office.

“You fired him?” I stutter out.

He nods.

“Why?”

“Because he wasn’t very effective in his job. He’s supposed to do no harm, but he hurt you.”

I swallow hard. “Will you hire another doctor?”

He doesn’t answer, and it’s clear he hasn’t decided.

“You need to put a bandaid on your hand,” Enzo says, holding one out to me.

I glance down at my hand where the IV was and see blood slowly oozing out. I take the bandaid from Enzo, careful not to brush our fingertips together, and then I apply the bandaid.

“Thank you.”

He smirks. “Don’t thank me, Kai—for anything.”

“What do you want with me?” I ask, my voice shaky, afraid of his answer. Because I can see the heat in his eyes. I already know the answer.

He shakes his head. “I want you to go upstairs to your room, keep your clothes on, and eat the food I provide you. And the next time I hire the best doctor in the world to examine you, you take the help.”