Pretty Lovely Lies by Heidi Stark

Author:Heidi Stark [Stark, Heidi]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2024-04-29T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 20

Alina

Yara's small frame seems to shrink even further as she stands defiant in the grand foyer. The soaring ceiling and cold marble loom oppressively, dwarfing her twelve-year-old form.

Across from her, Gerald's imposing height and broad shoulders block out the light. His initially charming smile is a distant memory, replaced by a perpetual expression of terrifying iciness.

"I won't do it," Yara states, her voice quivering slightly.

Gerald's jaw clenches, his patience clearly waning. "You'll do as I say, girl."

Yara shakes her head, resolute. "No. I don't want to."

In an instant, Gerald's large hand is raised threateningly.

Yara flinches but stands her ground.

Watching unseen from the doorway, my heart leaps into my throat.

Every instinct screams at me to run, to beg Gerald's forgiveness before his temper snaps.

But I force myself to remain still and quiet, my pulse racing.

The hovering hand.

The small defiant frame.

In a chilling moment of clarity, I know with certainty that no amount of compliance will keep Yara safe here.

I've let Gerald have his way, done everything he's asked of me. I've suffered, endured more than many could. But clearly, it's not enough.

The tiniest thing could set him off, send him unraveling. And he's clearly willing to take out his anger on me. It's only a matter of time before Yara becomes his target.

Gerald's voice slices the tense air. "You will do as I say, Yara. No questions asked."

I have to get her out of here. The thought pulses urgently through my mind.

I watch Yara's brave stance, see the shadow of fear in her eyes.

My resolve solidifies.

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