Ruby Revenge

There was a small bookcase with one shelf filled with older books. On top of the shelf was a book on a black metal stand. I squinted to make it out in the candlelight but could only see that it looked incredibly old.

“All I’m asking is that you read a passage in that book on the top shelf. It will explain everything, and you’ll understand why a place like this exists.” He spoke carefully and calmly.

Instead of answering, I only glared at him. He gave me a minute to respond, and when I didn’t, he started tugging me toward the bookshelf.

“Here, sit here while you read it.” He pulled a stool out from under the closest table and waited for me to sit. Looking anywhere except at him, I remained standing.

“Sage, you should sit down; you need it.” The caring demeanor sent rage coursing through me. I felt stupid. I had fallen for his charm. For his fake love.

“I think I’d rather just stand, or, you know, leave,” I spat out.

“No, I want you to sit.” Annoyance crept into his voice. “You know, I’m trying to make this as easy as possible for you. What you just went through is devastating. But if you’re going to be stubborn, then I may have to do things to make sure I won’t have to chase you down…” He trailed off, and I followed his gaze to the ball of twine on the table.

A shiver ran through me as I thought about my next move. He had never been anything but caring toward me. But after what had just happened, I had no idea what he was capable of. Attempting to escape would be a lot harder if he tied me up. The image of him at the bar when he charged at the guy flashed into my head. He had an angry side, and I didn’t want that side of him to come out.

“Happy?” I grudgingly sat down on the stool. I hated people getting their way with me when I didn’t want to do it. Being in this horrific situation made it so much worse.

“See, now don’t you feel better? What you’re about to read is pretty intense, so you should be comfortable.” He ran his hand down my hair before resting it on my shoulder. He gripped it tightly before he reached over and took the book off the shelf.

I couldn’t suppress the shudder that shot down my spine. Having his hand on my body was the last thing I wanted. I grabbed the book from him and set it in my lap. The book was black leather, and the cover was blank. It smelled musty, and the binding was worn from use, but it was still in good condition. It had been taken care of properly over the years.

“I can’t see. There’s not enough light in here to read it.”

“Here—I have a flashlight. I’ll shine it on the book while you read. You’ll understand all of this, baby. Once you read this, you’ll understand,” he said, almost pleadingly.

Hesitating for a moment, I slowly opened the book, still painstakingly aware of Alex’s hand on my shoulder. I just needed to read this and, no matter what, agree with him. He needed to believe I was on his side if I had any chance of getting out of here alive. With that thought, I started reading.