Chapter 2

I couldn't help myself. A raspy laugh escaped my lips.

"Well this is one hell of a reunion isn't it? What explanation could you possibly have

for knocking me out cold and leaving me tied up in this –" I searched for the correct

word but hit a blank "-this place?"

A million questions ran through my mind.

" I thought we were friends? All you had to do was come see me if you wanted to

talk, like a normal person would"

Before she could respond I cut her off

"Where the hell am I?"

"Would you calm down and let me explain?" said Nadira sounded exasperated. I said nothing.

" I am your friend and I'm trying to help you. I –"

I cut her off again. " Riiight, an ambush is just what I needed. Thanks a million!" My voice dripped with sarcasm.

She clenched her hands into fists and made a face I hadn't thought was humanly possible. I winced thinking she was about to hit me, but she just took a deep breath and said

"Either you can shut up and accept my help, or you can keep talking and forget about it." Her bluntness brought me to my senses and I mumbled an apology.

" It wasn't me who ambushed you or tied you up here. That was someone else. I don't have much time, so listen close."

She got down on her knees and began untying my hands as she talked.

"I am working for a man named Sloan Wickwire, or at least he thinks I am. It was him who had you brought here. Soon he will be coming to speak with you. It is very important that you pretend like we don't know each other, understand?

I nodded " Why are you untying me if you want me to stay here and talk to this guy?"

"If there's one word that describes Sloan," she said gravely, "it's – unpredictable. If he tries to hurt you I want you to have a chance to defend yourself. But pretend like your hands are still tied so he doesn't expect anything. If it comes to the worst, I've rigged the door so it doesn't really lock like they think it does, you just have to give it a good push. "

I drank in every word, trying to understand what was happening but confusion still ruled my mind. Before I could ask any more questions, Nadira said.

"I have to go. I will come back tonight after Sloan has left to explain more."

She cupped my face in her hands and stared into my eyes. Then she kissed my brow and whispered, "Good luck, Matt." Then she turned her back and hurried out the door.

"Wait!" I yelled as the door slammed shut, "Why am I here!?"

My only answer was the sound of fading footsteps.

"Why me?" I groaned, "Why is it always me?"