24

The corridors of Reese's estate were eerily quiet as Lila led them away from the great hall. The golden glow of chandeliers cast flickering shadows on the polished stone walls, their footsteps muffled by thick, luxurious rugs that seemed entirely out of place in what was, at its core, a prison.

Maddie kept her eyes locked forward, trying to suppress the rage boiling inside her. She couldn't let Reese's words shake her, but they did. The mention of that night in the asylum, the forced proximity of her, Jaime, and her mother under his sadistic direction—it was like he had reached into the past and dragged it back to suffocate her all over again.

Jaime walked beside her, her jaw tight, her breathing slow but controlled. Maddie could feel the tension radiating off her, a barely-contained storm of emotion.

Frank and Joe stayed close, their eyes sharp, scanning their surroundings. Chet was just ahead of them, his entire body coiled like a spring, barely restraining himself from launching at Lila and demanding to see Callie.

Lila led them through a series of winding hallways, past closed doors that Maddie knew no doubt concealed horrors she could likely relate to. Occasionally, they passed a girl—one of Reese's captives—moving silently through the corridors, eyes downcast, their silk garments whispering against the floors. The group figured many of these servants were allowed to come and go within the estate without worry of escape. The heavily fortified exterior rivalled some prisons ensuring whoever was on the inside was not going to get out without the permission of the lord and master, Reese.

Then, as they turned a corner, they saw her.

She was standing at the entrance of another corridor, holding a folded cloth against her chest. She was young, maybe fourteen, with olive-toned skin and dark, wary eyes that flickered over the group cautiously. She was shapely but petite.

Maddie recognized her immediately.

The doll in the jungle.

The missing finger.

Isadora.

The young girl flinched when she saw them, her gaze darting between them and Lila. She stiffened, pressing her maimed hand against her side as if to hide it.

Chet noticed too. His brow furrowed as he took a step forward. "Isadora?"

Lila exhaled dramatically. "Oh, come on, Chet. Don't start playing hero already." She glanced at the girl. "You have something to say, darling?"

Isadora's lips parted, but no sound came. She hesitated, eyes flickering back toward Maddie, then Jaime. Then she shook her head and bowed slightly, averting her gaze.

"That's what I thought," Lila murmured.

Joe stepped forward. "What the hell happened to her?"

Isadora tensed.

Lila smirked. "That depends on who you ask. If you ask her, she'll say it was a punishment. If you ask Reese, he'd say it was a lesson. If you ask me…" She tilted her head. "I'd say she's lucky she still has nine fingers left."

A chill ran through Maddie's spine.

Isadora swallowed hard, her fingers trembling slightly against the fabric she held.

Frank's voice was tight. "What was the punishment for?"

Lila clicked her tongue. "Oh, you know how it is. These girls—sometimes they forget their place. They don't perform their assigned duties as they should. Isadora was being a bit sloppy at one of her tasks." She turned to the girl. "Weren't you, sweetheart?"

Isadora's entire body tensed, but she gave a small, robotic nod.

Maddie's stomach twisted. The girl had been broken.

Jaime, who had been silent for most of their walk, finally spoke, her voice hoarse with restrained fury. "What does she do here?"

Lila smiled, and something about it was even crueler than her usual smirk. "Whatever she's told."

A long, horrible silence stretched between them.

Maddie met Isadora's eyes again, searching for something—anything—beneath the forced obedience. And she found it. A flicker of something deep, buried, but still alive.

Lila must have caught it too because she suddenly stepped forward, grabbing Isadora's chin and forcing her gaze back down. "You should get back to work now, dear. I believe our guests will be requiring a meal. Tend to that!" She snarled.

Isadora flinched but obeyed, turning swiftly and disappearing down another corridor without another word.

Chet's fists clenched at his sides, his entire body trembling with barely contained rage. "You're a sick bitch," he muttered.

Lila grinned. "You're just figuring that out now?"

No one said another word as she led them forward.

After a few more turns down the endless stone corridor, Lila finally came to a stop outside a set of thick wooden doors. She pushed one open and gestured inside.

"Welcome to your new home." She offered with a sickening smile.

The group peered inside, their stomachs sinking.

The room was large, but not in a way that offered comfort. There were no windows, only high, unscalable stone walls and a heavy door. Inside, there were several modest beds, a sitting area with a few cushions, and a small table with a pitcher of water and cups.

A cell. A decorated, cushioned cell.

Lila stepped aside, motioning them forward. "Go on, then. Get comfortable."

Frank shot her a sharp look. "How long are we supposed to stay here?"

She smirked. "That depends. If you behave, maybe you'll even get some privileges."

Joe scoffed. "Like what? A turn-down service?"

Lila tilted her head. "Well, some of the girls do provide that. But would Tiffany approve? I mean, after all, you are just rebuilding the marriage."

Frank flinched briefly at the notion that Lila was reasonably versed on Frank's personal life. He gave a short nod. "Quite right. I'll settle for a work release permit for the weekend if you have one handy."

Lila perked her eyebrows in amusement. "I'll submit that request, Detective Hardy. But I wouldn't hold my breath."

Maddie felt another wave of sickness hit her.

Chet walked inside last, his every step reluctant.

Lila leaned against the doorway, arms crossed, clearly enjoying herself. "Reese will call for you when he's ready. In the meantime, don't get any bright ideas. As you can see, this room is rather escape proof. Save your energy."

"What are we supposed to do?" Jaime asked with perhaps more indignation than was wise given who she was talking to.

Lila walked over to where Jaime and Maddie stood. An amused smile crossed her lips, and she blinked a few times towards Jaime. She quickly grabbed Jaime's hand, turning it palm side up and firmly slid in between Maddie's legs. Maddie jumped in surprise as she reacted to the sudden stimulation. "I think you two can find a way to occupy your time. Just tell daddy to turn around for a few." Chet was about to launch forward, but Frank placed his hand on his pal's shoulder to restrain him. Lila nodded and smiled to Chet. "Better heed Detective Hardy's advice, daddy. You were a second away from landing on the floor."

Chet's eyes narrowed and he did his best to restrain his desire to attack the woman. "We'll see who ends up on the floor, bitch!" he muttered through gritted teeth.

Lila was one who could turn from sick humor to psychotic violence in a split second. She stepped forward and got up into Chet's face. Her eyes reduced to slits. "Look, you fat fuck… Don't push me. One more unkind word and I will stick a gun in your daughter's ear and promise you I will pull the trigger if she doesn't get on her knees and spit shine every helmet in this room. Including yours, daddy! Am I fucking clear?"

Chet, immediately distressed by the proposed threat and scenario nodded briefly. "Crystal clear."

Lila regained her sickening trademark smile, and nodded. She turned, flashing them one last smirk before stepping out and pulling the heavy door closed behind her.

The sound of the lock clicking into place was like the final seal of a coffin.

For several moments, no one spoke.

Chet finally exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair before turning toward the others. "Well, clearly we are dealing with a sick bitch. We need to get out of here. And fast."

Frank nodded, already assessing the room, his mind working. "There has to be a way. Reese is a loose cannon and a sicko. But so is Lila. I'm glad you didn't say anything else Chet. She would have definitely followed through on her threat."

Maddie shuddered at the thought that Reese could not only try to continue the sick game he had attempted in the shower room of the asylum with her mother. But he could also try to integrate her own father. She closed her eyes and started to weep. "We need to get out of here!"

Joe crossed his arms. "What about Isadora? She knew something. You saw it."

Maddie sat down slowly, her fingers trembling as she clenched them into fists. "She's afraid. Just like they all are. Like we are! But she could help us…maybe."

Jaime sat beside her, pressing their shoulders together. "If she does… it'll cost her."

Maddie swallowed hard. "We are not in a position to challenge her. Much as I want to stick that gun up her ass!"

Chet sighed. "First things first. We need to figure out how many people actually live in this hellhole. How many guards. How many girls. And most importantly…" He locked eyes with Maddie. "Where your mother is."

Maddie nodded, her jaw tightening with determination. "And we find a way to take Reese down before he gets the chance to touch any of us again."

Chet nodded as he comforted his daughter. "For sure, baby."

A heavy silence settled over them.

The faint creak of the heavy door brought all conversation in the cell to a halt. Every muscle in Chet's body tensed as he turned to face the entrance, instinctively preparing for the worst. But it wasn't Reese.

Isadora stepped inside, balancing a tray with several small bowls of food and a pitcher of water. She moved cautiously, her dark eyes darting toward the door before shifting back to the captives.

"I bring food," she said softly, her Portuguese accent thick, her English broken but understandable.

Maddie and Jaime watched as she knelt down and set the tray on the cold stone floor, her hands shaking slightly. Even in the dim lighting, they could see the bruises on her wrists, the faint scars that hinted at the cruelty she had endured. Maddie's gaze fell to Isadora's hand—where her pinky finger should have been, there was only a jagged, healed-over stump.

Chet stepped forward, his voice low but firm. "Isadora," he said carefully, not wanting to scare her off, "we need your help."

Isadora's face tensed, and she shook her head quickly. "No. I no help. I bring food."

Frank's expression was soft and kind as he crouched beside her. "We know you're afraid. But we also know you don't want to be here."

Isadora flinched slightly, looking away. "I no… I no want this. But I no escape."

Joe took a step forward. "Is there a way for us to escape?"

Isadora swallowed, then hesitated before responding. "No. Not easy. Reese… watch."

Frank frowned. "Surveillance?"

She nodded. "Cameras. Many. Everywhere."

Chet felt his stomach sink. That was a complication they hadn't fully accounted for.

"But," Isadora hesitated, glancing toward the door as if checking for unseen listeners, "not all."

Frank's attention sharpened. "What do you mean?"

"Some places," Isadora said, her voice barely above a whisper. "No cameras. No watch."

Chet leaned in slightly. "Where?"

She hesitated, then glanced at Jaime and Maddie before refocusing on Chet. "Under. Big tunnels. Some no cameras."

Joe exchanged a look with Frank. "Tunnels?"

Isadora nodded quickly. "Old. Before house. Some go far."

Frank's mind was already spinning, calculating. "Do they lead outside?"

Isadora looked uncertain. "Some. Maybe. Some closed."

Joe exhaled. "Of course. Wouldn't be that easy."

Maddie swallowed. "What about my mom?" Her voice was quiet but firm.

Isadora's expression darkened. "She… not good."

Chet's fists clenched. "What do you mean?"

"Lila," Isadora whispered, her eyes flicking downward in shame. "Beat her."

Maddie's breath caught. "She's hurt?"

Isadora nodded. "Weak. No food. Not much."

Jaime's hands clenched at her sides, anger sparking in her eyes. "Where is she?"

Isadora hesitated, then answered, "Locked. No guard."

Chet's brow furrowed. "No guards?"

Isadora shook her head. "No need. Door locked. No one go in."

Frank exhaled. "Which means if we can get the key, we can get to her."

Joe ran a hand down his face. "Assuming we can get to the tunnels without getting caught."

Frank nodded. "It's something, though. We have an advantage if we know where the blind spots are. But if there are multiple tunnels and they are old, it would be a crap shoot as far as knowing which lead somewhere and which lead nowhere."

Maddie hesitated, then asked what had been gnawing at her mind since she first saw Isadora's missing finger. "Isadora… what happened to your hand?"

Isadora swallowed, looking down at her damaged hand. "I spill drink." She took a shaky breath, then whispered, "Lila cut."

Maddie's stomach twisted with revulsion. Jaime turned pale, visibly struggling to comprehend the cruelty of it.

Joe exhaled sharply, muttering a curse under his breath. "Jesus."

Frank set his jaw. "We need to get out of here."

Chet turned back to Isadora. "What about Marcos and Antonio?"

Isadora's expression tightened. "Other room. Locked."

Chet's eyes narrowed. "Are they okay?"

Isadora hesitated. "Not bad. Not good."

Chet exhaled sharply. "We have to get them out too."

Frank nodded. "First, we figure out how to reach Callie. Then we get to those tunnels."

Joe sighed. "And we do it without Reese or Lila catching on."

Chet's face was grim. "We'll do it. Not sure how… But we have to."

Isadora took a shaky breath, then stood. "No more talk. I go."

She turned to leave but paused at the door. She looked back at them, her expression torn between fear and something else—hope.

"You be strong," she whispered before slipping out, leaving them alone once more.

The moment the door shut, Frank turned to the others. "We have a way out."

Chet nodded slowly then shrugged. "Well, maybe. But a whole lot of variables to factor."

"Well, we of course have the option of sitting and staying put and hoping dad is on our trail and gets us out." Frank said with some hope.

"And what happens during that time while we are waiting?" Chet whispered the question fretfully. "Reese gonna arrange for something sick and perverse to twiddle away the time?"

Before anyone could reply they heard the sounds of a key clanging and entering the lock on the heavy doors.

The heavy iron door groaned as it slowly swung open, the dim light from the hallway spilling into the cell. Maddie and Jaime tensed instinctively, their bodies going rigid as the silhouette of Reese filled the doorway. Behind him, Lila stood with her arms crossed, a smirk tugging at her lips.

"Rise and shine, girls," Reese drawled, his voice rich with amusement. His sharp eyes locked onto Maddie first, then drifted to Jaime. "Time to reunite with dear old Mom."

Maddie felt her stomach knot, a sickening wave of dread washing over her. She swallowed hard but didn't move. Jaime reached for her hand, their fingers lacing together in silent support.

Chet surged forward, but Lila cut him off with a sharp click of her tongue and the casual reveal of a pistol at her hip. "Not your turn, fat man," she said coolly. "Stay put."

"Don't you dare touch them," Chet growled, his voice trembling with fury.

Reese turned to him with a grin, as if Chet's anger was nothing more than a mild amusement. "Oh, Chet. You're still laboring under the illusion that you have some sort of say in this. That's cute."

Maddie's pulse pounded in her ears. She didn't want to go anywhere with him, but what choice did they have? Reese had the power, the leverage. And worst of all, he enjoyed it.

Reese stepped forward, the air thick with unspoken menace. "Let's not make this difficult, girls," he said, tilting his head. "Wouldn't want to have to drag you. That wouldn't be… graceful."

Jaime exhaled sharply through her nose, and Maddie could feel the tension radiating off her. They had survived him before. But now, there was no cell door between them.

Reese gestured for them to follow. When neither of them moved, his smile vanished, his patience thinning. "Now."

Lila exhaled, shaking her head. "They really want to make this hard on themselves, don't they?"

Reese gave an exaggerated sigh, stepping closer to Maddie. "I was going to be gentle about this, but if you want me to have Lila start using that knife she loves so much, we can do it that way." He then gestured over towards Chet. "Or, maybe you need a warm up of what is to come with someone less threatening. How about it, Maddie?" He pushed the girl towards her father. "How about practicing your reactions? Let's hear it from you… 'It's So Big, Daddy!' and my dear, I have seen photos of dear old daddy, also goes by the name of Walt. He and your step mommy Aimee. And I can assure you he is packing a big gun." Maddie started weeping as she shook her head furiously. Chet knelt down and embraced his daughter.

A moment later Reese reached down and pulled Maddie up towards him. Lila stepped up and grabbed her firmly. "We can do this the easy way or the hard way, little princess. But like it or not you and Jaime are coming." Maddie screamed briefly as Lila held her. In a flash Lila took out a long thin knife from a sheath and held it to the youth's throat. Maddie immediate ceased crying and stood without moving. Only the quivering of her subdued crying as she gasped to gain a breath remained. Again, Chet launched forward only to be met with Lila's other hand as it deftly swiped the butt of her pistol against Chet's head. Chet crumpled to the floor, but looked up fearfully.

Reese looked down and the over to Lila with an impressed look. "Multi tasking, my dear? Two at once. I need to give you a raise."

Lila offered a sickening smile as she held her knife against Maddie's throat. "Well, I aim to please." She shifted her attention to Maddie. "Are you coming willingly now?"

Maddie clenched her jaw, her mind racing. Realizing that any resistance here would only further hurt her or her father. Her best chance was waiting for an opportunity.

Slowly, she exhaled and nodded, gesturing for Jaime to come with her willingly. "Yes, ma'am." She said, not wanting to see her father hurt any further.

"Good girl," Reese murmured, his grin returning. "See? That wasn't so hard, was it?"

Jaime shot him a glare but kept quiet. They both knew words wouldn't change anything now.

Chet's hands clenched into fists as he made a slight move to get up. "Maddie—"

"Dad, don't," Maddie cut him off quickly. Her voice was firm, but her eyes burned with emotion. "We'll be okay."

Reese chuckled, stepping aside to let them pass. "You always were an optimist, kid." He turned back to Chet, his grin stretching wider. "Sit tight. We'll be back. Keep some hope out for sloppy seconds."

With that, he led Maddie and Jaime out of the cell, Lila falling in step behind them. The cold, stale air of the hallway hit Maddie's skin like a slap as they stepped away from the only people who could protect them.

The corridor was long, dimly lit by overhead bulbs that flickered weakly against the damp stone walls. Their footsteps echoed ominously as they moved forward, deeper into Reese's domain.

Maddie's mind raced. She knew what was waiting at the end of this hall. Knew who they were about to see.

Her mother.

She had spent so long trying to find her, and now—under these circumstances—she wasn't sure if she was ready. After what Isadora had said about her condition, Maddie did her best to mentally ready herself.

But ultimately, it didn't matter.

Because Reese was in control.

And he was going to make sure they all knew it.

The hallway stretched on, winding through the depths of Reese's estate like the veins of a monstrous beast. The further they walked, the colder the air seemed to grow, the oppressive weight of the stone walls pressing in on Maddie's chest. Jaime's grip on her hand was tight, almost painfully so, but Maddie didn't pull away. She needed the anchor, the reminder that she wasn't alone.

Reese strolled ahead of them, hands tucked lazily into his pockets, whistling a slow, eerie tune. Lila followed at their backs, silent but ever-present. The only sound aside from their footsteps was the occasional flickering of the dim overhead bulbs.

They turned a final corner, stopping in front of a heavy wooden door reinforced with steel plating. Reese reached into his pocket, pulling out a set of keys, and took his time finding the right one. He seemed to relish the moment—the anticipation of what was about to unfold.

Maddie's stomach twisted. She knew what was behind that door.

Her mother.

Reese slid the key into the lock and turned it with a slow, deliberate motion. The heavy mechanism clicked, and with a theatrical flourish, he pushed the door open.

The room inside was small, windowless, and damp. A single flickering lightbulb dangled from the ceiling, casting uneven shadows across the walls. Against the far side of the room, Callie Morton sat curled on a thin mattress, her arms wrapped around her knees. Her blonde hair was disheveled, and her face bore fresh bruises—dark purples and sickly yellows standing out against her pale skin. Her lip was split, and dried blood crusted at the corner of her mouth.

Maddie sucked in a sharp breath, horror gripping her at the sight of her mother's condition.

Callie's head snapped up at the sound of the door opening. Her eyes, tired and wary, widened when she saw the two figures standing in the doorway.

"Maddie?" her voice cracked, hoarse from disuse.

Maddie nearly buckled at the sound. "Mom!"

She surged forward before she could stop herself, but Reese's hand shot out, grabbing her by the wrist and yanking her back. His grip was iron, his fingers digging into her skin.

"Easy there," he murmured, voice smooth as silk. "No need to rush the reunion."

Jaime tensed beside her, fists clenched so tightly that her knuckles were white.

Callie pushed herself up on shaking legs, her body visibly trembling as she took a hesitant step forward. Her eyes flickered between Maddie and Jaime, her confusion evident. "Why—why are you here?"

Reese smirked. "Because I invited them, darling."

Callie's breath hitched, fear flashing across her face as she turned to Reese. "No. You leave them alone!"

Reese tilted his head, as if amused by her defiance. "Now, now, Callie. I thought you'd be happy to see your daughter again. And her little friend, too." His gaze flicked over to Jaime, his smile deepening. "I must admit, I wasn't sure I'd get to see you again, Jaime. You were always a useful little thing… until Maddie ruined that, of course."

Jaime's entire body went rigid, her face paling at his words. Maddie's grip on her hand tightened, a silent reassurance that she was there—that he couldn't break them.

Callie's eyes darted back to Maddie and Jaime, her breathing shallow. "Please," she whispered, her voice laced with desperation. "Please don't do this."

Reese sighed dramatically, shaking his head. "You always beg so prettily, Callie. But you should know by now that begging doesn't change anything."

He finally let go of Maddie's wrist, only to step forward and reach out, cupping Callie's chin between his fingers. She flinched but didn't pull away, her body frozen in place.

"You remember what happened last time you tried to defy me, don't you?" he murmured, his grip tightening slightly. "The little bath I made you take with your daughter and her friend? How helpless you felt? I wonder… will it be easier this time?"

Callie squeezed her eyes shut, a single tear slipping down her bruised cheek. "You're a monster."

Reese laughed, the sound low and rich. "Oh, Callie. I've never claimed to be anything else."

Maddie felt rage bubble inside her, but before she could do something reckless, Jaime spoke, her voice shaking with fury. "You won't get away with this."

Reese turned to her, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Oh, sweetheart. I already have."

He clapped his hands together, as if signaling the start of something. "Well, we have a lot of catching up to do. And I have a lot of… plans."

Lila finally spoke, her voice lazy. "Should I have the others prepare the main suite?"

Reese grinned. "Yes. Let's make this a night to remember."

Maddie's stomach lurched. Whatever was coming next—it was going to be hell.

And they had no way out.

Maddie swallowed hard, forcing herself to meet Reese's smug gaze. Her body trembled—not just with fear, but with the anger roiling beneath the surface. He thought he had them completely at his mercy, that they would break just like all the others. But Maddie wasn't going to make this easy for him.

She took a slow, steadying breath. "You want to play, Reese?" Her voice wavered but held firm. "Then you're going to have to wait."

Reese arched an eyebrow, his expression shifting from amusement to intrigue. "Wait?" He let out a chuckle, glancing at Jaime, then back to Maddie. "Oh, my dear, I don't think you understand how this works. You don't get to make demands."

Maddie clenched her fists, digging her nails into her palms to keep from shaking. "Then you don't get to enjoy what you want." She squared her shoulders, forcing herself to channel every ounce of defiance she had left. "I know what you want, and if you want it to be worth anything, then you need to give my mother real food. Water. A bath. Otherwise, you won't get the show you're hoping for."

Jaime stiffened beside her, her hand squeezing Maddie's in silent support. Reese's smirk faltered, just for a moment, his gaze flickering toward Callie, who lay weakly on the bed, her face bruised, her skin pale from dehydration.

"You think you're in a position to bargain with me?" Reese asked, stepping closer.

Maddie's heart pounded so hard she thought it might explode, but she didn't back down. "You'll get what you want," she said carefully. "But not until my mother is strong enough to participate."

Reese studied her, his dark eyes narrowing slightly. He was weighing his options, considering whether to punish her for daring to challenge him or to humor her just to see where this would lead.

Finally, he let out a slow, mocking sigh. "You drive a hard bargain, virgin girl." He turned, pacing slowly before gesturing toward the ornate doorway. "Very well. It would be such a shame if your dear mother wasn't at her best. A feast, then."

Jaime's fingers dug into Maddie's arm, her grip tightening in silent disbelief. Maddie barely dared to breathe. Was this actually working?

Reese turned back to them, his smirk returning. "But make no mistake," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "This little delay doesn't change the inevitable. You all belong to me now."

Maddie forced herself to hold his gaze, not letting him see how deeply those words shook her. "Then you'll want us in the best condition possible, won't you?"

Reese laughed, shaking his head as if she were a delightful amusement to him. "Clever girl." He turned toward the door, snapping his fingers. "Isadora!"

A few moments later, the young servant girl appeared, her head bowed, her posture stiff. "Sim, senhor?"

Reese gestured toward Callie with a lazy wave of his hand. "See to it that our guest is bathed and dressed properly. And tell the kitchen to prepare something exquisite for dinner. A grand meal to celebrate our reunion."

Isadora hesitated for only a fraction of a second before nodding. "Sim, senhor."

Reese turned his attention back to Maddie and Jaime, his smile widening. "I do hope you two haven't worn yourselves out already. Lila had such… vivid descriptions of your little tent rendezvous last night." He chuckled at their reactions, clearly pleased by their discomfort. "But don't worry, I'll make sure you have plenty of time to recover before the real fun begins."

Jaime's grip on Maddie tightened even further, her body going rigid with rage and disgust. But Maddie forced herself to remain composed, her fingers lacing through Jaime's, holding on as though grounding them both.

Reese clapped his hands once, dramatically. "Well then, my darlings. Refresh yourselves. Because after tonight… the real entertainment begins."

With that, he turned and strode from the room, his laughter lingering in the air like the stench of death.

As soon as he was gone, Maddie let out a shaky breath. She turned to Jaime, her face pale but her eyes filled with determination. "We bought ourselves time," she whispered. "We have to use it."

Jaime nodded, her voice low but resolute. "Then we need a plan. Fast."

Maddie looked at her mother, who was still struggling to sit up. Reese had given them a window—small, but crucial.

Now, they had to figure out how to escape before it closed forever.

The ornate doors shut behind Reese with a heavy finality, leaving Maddie, Jaime, and Callie alone with Isadora. The tension in the room remained suffocating, the lingering echoes of Reese's laughter like poison in the air.

Callie shifted slightly, wincing as she tried to sit up. Maddie rushed to her side, her hands shaking as she touched her mother's bruised skin. The sight of her up close—so frail, so damaged—made Maddie's chest constrict with rage and helplessness.

"You shouldn't have done that," Callie murmured weakly, her voice hoarse. "You don't bargain with monsters."

Maddie swallowed, pressing a trembling hand against her mother's arm. "I had to. He wasn't going to stop unless I gave him a reason to wait."

Callie closed her eyes for a moment before looking at her daughter, her exhaustion evident. "And now he thinks he owns you."

Jaime knelt beside them, her voice tight. "Then we make sure he never gets what he wants."

A soft noise made them all turn. Isadora stood by the door, her dark eyes darting toward them uncertainly. She had hesitated when Reese had ordered her to see to Callie. Now, she seemed torn between duty and something else.

"Banho," she said in Portuguese, then caught herself and tried again in her limited English. "You… bath now. Take."

Callie nodded slowly, too weak to argue. Maddie and Jaime helped her stand, and though she swayed, she managed to steady herself.

As they moved toward the adjoining bathroom, Maddie hesitated. "Isadora," she said carefully, watching the girl's reaction. "Some places… no cameras, yes?"

Isadora stiffened. Her gaze flickered toward the door as if she feared being overheard. After a tense moment, she gave a small, almost imperceptible nod.

Maddie's heart pounded. "Where?"

Isadora hesitated again, then whispered, "Túnel."

"Tunnel?" Jaime asked, her eyes narrowing.

Isadora nodded quickly, then pressed a finger to her lips, urging silence.

Maddie exhaled slowly. This was something. Maybe even the break they needed.

As Isadora helped Callie into the luxurious bathroom, Jaime leaned closer to Maddie and murmured, "This could be our way out."

Maddie clenched her fists, determination hardening in her eyes. "Then we have to find that tunnel. And we have to find it fast."

Because time was running out. And soon, Reese would come to collect what he believed was his.

Maddie clenched her jaw, her mind racing with the implications of what Isadora had just whispered. Túnel. The very idea of a way out, of an escape route hidden beneath this wretched compound, was both thrilling and terrifying. But as she glanced back at her mother, slumped weakly in Isadora's arms, she knew there was no way they could make a run for it now.

Callie was in no condition to escape. She could barely stand, let alone navigate tunnels beneath the estate. Any attempt to flee with her like this would only get them all recaptured—and likely punished in ways Maddie didn't even want to imagine.

No. They had to wait. Bide their time.

Jaime, standing close enough to read Maddie's thoughts, placed a hand on her arm. "We can't move yet," she whispered, her eyes darting toward the door as if she expected Reese to return at any moment. "Your mom won't make it."

Maddie inhaled sharply and nodded. "I know."

For now, they had to play along. They had to endure. And they had to keep Reese distracted long enough for Callie to regain her strength.

Isadora led them into an opulent bathing suite that could have easily belonged to royalty. White marble gleamed under soft, golden light. An enormous soaking tub sat in the center, steam rising from its heated waters. Plush towels and scented oils lined the edges, the stark contrast between luxury and the horrors of captivity making Maddie's stomach twist.

Isadora assisted Callie toward the tub, her movements careful but mechanical—like a servant resigned to her fate. As she helped lower Callie into the warm water, the older woman shuddered, releasing a slow, shaky breath.

Maddie crouched beside the tub, watching her mother's face. Callie's eyelids fluttered, the exhaustion evident, but for the first time since they had seen her, some of the tension seemed to leave her shoulders.

Isadora glanced at Maddie, then at Jaime, hesitating before saying in her limited English, "She… need food. Real food."

Maddie nodded, her grip tightening on the marble ledge of the tub. "Yes. Tell him that. He said he would"

Isadora's expression darkened, but she nodded. "I try."

Callie's eyes barely opened as she whispered, "I don't want anything from him."

Maddie shook her head. "You have to eat, Mom. You have to get stronger." Her voice softened. "We need you."

Callie's gaze flickered toward Maddie, then toward Jaime. The fight in her was still there—just buried beneath layers of pain and exhaustion.

Isadora straightened, adjusting the towel draped over her shoulder. "I bring nice dress. No… um…" She frowned, searching for the right word before pointing toward Callie's tattered clothes. "No more this."

Maddie swallowed her pride. They were playing a game of survival. And for now, they had to play it carefully. "Okay."

Isadora hesitated for only a moment longer before turning and slipping from the bathing chamber, the door closing softly behind her.

Jaime let out a slow breath, running a hand through her hair. "I don't like this."

"Neither do I." Maddie exhaled, dipping a hand into the water, making sure the temperature wasn't too much for her mother's fragile state. "But if we don't make it look like we're cooperating, he'll have an excuse to force us into something worse."

Jaime frowned, her fingers brushing Maddie's hand beneath the water. "And if he tries anyway?"

Maddie set her jaw. "Honestly, I am not sure."

True to his word, Reese had arranged for an extravagant dinner. A long table, covered in expensive linens, was set with silver platters overflowing with steaming, fragrant dishes. Roasted meats, fresh tropical fruits, pastries that looked like they had been flown in from a European bakery—it was enough to make Maddie's stomach churn.

But Callie needed to eat. That was the only reason Maddie had pushed for this.

Reese sat at the head of the table, his expression smug as he gestured toward the food. "See?" he said smoothly. "I can be generous."

Maddie gritted her teeth but kept her face neutral. "If you wanted to impress us, you could try not starving your prisoners."

Reese only chuckled, raising a glass of wine to his lips. "Such fire. I do appreciate that."

Jaime sat to Maddie's right, her eyes downcast but her posture rigid. Callie, freshly bathed and wearing a silken dress that Isadora had provided, sat to her left. Her movements were slow, but Maddie could see the way her hands trembled as she reached for a piece of bread.

She was still weak. But at least she was eating.

Reese watched them with sharp amusement, his gaze lingering on Maddie and Jaime as he swirled his wine in his glass. "I do hope the two of you haven't worn yourselves out," he said smoothly. "Lila was quite the observer last night."

Maddie's stomach twisted into knots. Jaime stiffened beside her.

Reese's smirk widened. "You don't need to be shy. You were enjoying yourselves, weren't you? And Jaime, I will be giving you the honor of being the first one to play this evening."

Jaime's grip tightened around her fork. Maddie could feel the rage rolling off her in waves.

Stay calm. Stay in control.

Maddie forced herself to lift her chin, meeting Reese's gaze head-on. "I think we should enjoy this expansive meal first. No point in talking about other things just yet."

Reese barked out a laugh. "You're learning, aren't you?"

Maddie ignored him and focused on Callie. "Mom, eat more."

Callie took another hesitant bite, her shoulders tense. She hadn't spoken since they had been led to the dining hall, but Maddie knew she was holding everything inside—her fear, her disgust, her horror.

Jaime finally spoke, her voice quieter but no less sharp. "Why the grand feast, Reese? Planning to fatten us up?"

Reese tilted his head, pretending to consider. "I prefer my guests to be comfortable. And well-fed." His eyes darkened slightly. "It makes things… more enjoyable."

A sickening chill ran down Maddie's spine.

Jaime exhaled sharply, looking away.

Maddie clenched her fists beneath the table. We need time. We need to be patient.

Because the moment they showed their hand—the moment they tried to escape—was the moment everything would change. And they couldn't afford to fail.

Not when Callie's life depended on it.

Not when theirs did too.

As the evening progressed and Callie continued to eat, her improvement was unmistakable. The color returned to her face, the glassy haze in her eyes clearing as she regained her focus. She had been dangerously weak, but Maddie realized now just how much of it had been due to pure malnutrition and dangerously low blood sugar.

With each bite of food, her hands steadied. Her breathing deepened. She sat up straighter in her chair. The transformation was subtle, but to Maddie and Jaime—who had only seen her frail and broken—it was profound.

Reese, lounging at the head of the table, watched her with amusement, swirling his wine in his glass. "There's my lovely Callie," he murmured, his voice smooth and laced with something dark. "I was beginning to think you'd wasted away completely. But look at you—just needed a little indulgence, didn't you?"

Callie's eyes, once dull and unfocused, sharpened as they locked onto him. For the first time since Maddie had found her, Callie looked entirely present. She understood the game being played now.

And she was about to play it herself.

She swallowed the last bite of food, taking her time as she dabbed at the corner of her mouth with a linen napkin. When she finally spoke, her voice was calm, controlled—a far cry from the barely-there rasp she had managed earlier.

"I needed sustenance, yes," she admitted, her tone measured. "A woman can't endure much when she's starved."

Reese grinned, his amusement clear. "That's right. And you'll need your strength. You and your lovely daughter—" his eyes flicked to Maddie, then to Jaime, "—and her sweet companion."

Callie barely reacted, save for a slow, deliberate inhale. She cast a brief glance at Maddie and Jaime, something unreadable passing through her expression. Then, she turned her full focus back to Reese.

"You don't need them." The words were spoken smoothly, without hesitation. "You never did."

Maddie stiffened beside her, her fingers gripping the edge of the table. Jaime's breath hitched slightly, though she kept her expression neutral.

Reese quirked a brow, setting down his wine glass. "Oh?" He leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table, studying Callie with a predator's curiosity. "And why is that, my dear?"

Callie's lips curled into the faintest hint of a smile—calculated, practiced, almost inviting. "Because you already know what I can do. What I'm willing to do." Her voice softened, but there was a dangerous edge beneath it. "Why bother with two inexperienced girls… when you have me?"

Maddie's heart pounded in her chest. No. No, Mom, don't do this.

Reese exhaled a low chuckle, his dark eyes gleaming with something unreadable. He studied Callie as though she were a rare specimen—something fascinating, something worth examining.

"Ah," he mused, tilting his head. "Self-sacrifice. A mother's undying love." His smile widened. "How noble. How predictable."

Callie didn't waver. "You've always wanted me, Reese. You went through all this trouble to bring me here. Why complicate things?"

Jaime swallowed audibly, shifting beside Maddie.

Reese leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers idly against the table. "A tempting offer, Callie. Truly." He dragged his gaze lazily down her form before meeting her eyes again. "But I'm afraid I've already made my decision."

Maddie felt sick.

Reese smirked, lifting his glass once more. "You see, I rather enjoy variety." He turned his attention toward Maddie and Jaime, savoring their unease. "Why limit myself to just one when I can enjoy all three?"

Jaime's hand gripped Maddie's under the table. Stay calm. Don't react.

Callie's mask of composure didn't falter, but her fingers tightened around her napkin. "I can do whatever you need. You know that."

Reese's eyes darkened, amusement giving way to something colder. "Oh, I know you can, my dear." He lifted his glass, taking a slow sip before setting it down. "But I also know that you, alone, are not enough."

Maddie's stomach twisted.

Reese tapped his fingers against the glass, smiling lazily. "Here's the thing, Callie. I like watching people learn. I like seeing the moment someone realizes they no longer have control over their own body. Over their own pleasure. Over their own suffering."

Callie's nails dug into her palm, but she kept her face impassive.

"And your daughter…" Reese exhaled a satisfied sigh. "She is so much like you."

Maddie clenched her jaw, rage and nausea swirling inside her.

Reese grinned, noticing. "Oh, don't look at me like that, sweetheart. It's quite the compliment."

Jaime squeezed Maddie's hand tighter.

Reese slowly stood, running a hand along the polished surface of the table as he moved closer to them. "So, here's how this is going to work," he murmured, his voice smooth as silk. "You all have a choice. A very simple one."

He circled them like a predator, his presence suffocating.

"You perform for me," he said softly, dragging the word out with a sick kind of pleasure. "You show me how grateful you are for my hospitality." He tilted his head, his smirk widening. "And in return? You live."

A suffocating silence filled the room.

Maddie's pulse thundered in her ears.

Callie inhaled sharply, but her expression didn't falter.

Jaime swallowed hard, her grip on Maddie's hand unrelenting.

Reese's smirk deepened. "What's the matter?" he mused. "Cat got your tongue?"

He leaned in closer, his breath warm against Maddie's ear.

"Or do you just need some encouragement?"