Page 61 of Obsession (Dark Revenge)
“It’s safe,” he corrected himself.
“Is it... clean?” I inquired, and he furrowed his brow before understanding what I meant.
“The bodies are gone. It’s been cleaned.”
I wasn't certain if I liked the idea of returning there. It merely served as a stark reminder of the events that had transpired. I grasped the edge of the bench, leaning forward briefly, unintentionally bringing myself closer to Jared. For an instant, my face was poised just above his, but I hastily pulled back,nodding in acceptance. In truth, I didn't have much of a choice. Wherever he went, I was compelled to follow.
“So when is ‘soon’?” I questioned.
“I have an important dinner tomorrow that I need to get through, but Sunday, I expect. Early,” he replied.
“Okay.”
“You don’t sound so upset anymore,” he pointed out.
“It’s not like I have a choice.”
“Do you like it here?” he inquired, tilting his head slightly as he studied me.
I looked around. This room had definitely been added later, with a newer quality to it—lighter walls and a less creaky floor. But I didn’t mind the creaky floorboards or the almost haunting quality the mansion had. It was glorious in its dark colors.
“If it wasn’t filled with killers, I might,” I retorted, turning back to Jared, only to see him smile.
“Yeah?”
“Yes.”
There was something peculiar about the way he smiled, as if he derived a strange satisfaction from hearing that I appreciated this place, although I knew that thought was irrational. This was his home, and he could barely tolerate my touch without permission.
"Pack up," he ordered, abruptly terminating the conversation.
I followed his command, efficiently gathering his belongings and placing them into a black bag before slinging the strap over my shoulder. Yet, I couldn't suppress an important question.
"Who are you having dinner with?" I inquired.
"Astrid and her family," he replied matter-of-factly.
I froze, halting behind Jared as he continued walking. When he reached the door and noticed I wasn't following, he turned slightly, locking eyes with me.
"Are you coming, slave?" he taunted, but my feet remained rooted in place, and I clutched the strap on my shoulder as though it were an anchor.
"Why would you have dinner with her?" I pressed.
He frowned, clearly puzzled.
"Because she is my future wife," he stated.
"Who practically assaulted you," I pointed out.
He let out an exasperated sigh, briefly looking away before returning his gaze to me.
"We will have a discussion about everything."
"Right. “Learning her”, correct? How do you plan to do that? Will you whip her ass too?" I mocked.
"I fear she might enjoy that a bit too much," he sighed, crossing his arms over his large chest.
How had a once-small boy grown into this imposing man? What had Vince subjected him to, to transform his body so drastically? It was indeed impressive, but then I recalled Jared's comment about being 'fed properly', which offered me a glimpse into the profound neglect he had suffered. It seemed his father had both physically abused and starved him, deepening the ache in my heart. I had only added to his suffering. That's why, once I left this place, it was best to leave Jared entirely alone. It was time for this war to come to an end.
