Rise of the Fallen, A Saga

Son of the World

Victoria

The neon lights from the bar glowed with the normal I-need-attention prominence. Three girls stood outside laughing. They huddled close, mainly trying to keep their balance. The one in the middle held her phone up for the others to see. The app notified them that their ride would be there in less than a minute.

As predicted, the little sedan pulled up in front and a man greeted them. He smiled politely as they got in the back seat. The girls ignored him for the most part, continuing with their drunken laughter and chatter.

So are you girls in college? he attempted at polite conversation.

They continued to ignore him talking amongst each other. The one in the middle shot him a disgusted look for a second. He just smiled back at her through the rearview. The one on the passenger side finally spoke to him, Uh, we need you to stop in two more blocks.

The address I was given is still ten minutes away though.

That’s my address, said the girl in the middle, they live right up here on the right.

Oh, gotcha.

He pulled up to the curb for the girls to get out. They said their goodbyes to Vickie and shut the door. He watched them stumble to the front of their building, then drove off with his last passenger.

So your name is Vickie? he inquired.

Um, yeah it is.

Well, it’s great to meet you, Vickie.

Um, sure. Hey, could you please not talk? I’m just ready to get home.

Sure, Vickie.

They fell into silence as he drove to the address. He kept glancing back at her through the mirror. Despite her drunkenness, she was very attractive. He thought her clothes were a little trashy considering the revealing nature, but then again, she was at a bar when he picked her up. The makeup wasn’t caked on her face though.  The blonde hair was natural and her lips were full. Just the way you like them, he thought.

He smiled again at her as they were pulling up to the address. She was reaching into her purse for her card. He held up his phone with a Foursquare adapter so she could slide it through and pay for her ride.

She leaned forward to swipe her card as he reached to catch her arm. Before she could pull away the rag was over her face and everything went black. She slouched into the back seat as he smiled again. He slid the card through the foursquare and ran the payment. He put some gloves on before grabbing her purse. He found her phone and threw it out of the car.

He smiled as he drove away, Just the way you like them.

Victoria slowly woke up. She had the scariest dream ever. She was kidnapped and then tied to a bed by her creepy Jitney driver. Last time she ever uses that app...she opened her eyes and screamed. 

He was standing there above her smiling.

What the fuck?! she screamed.

Good morning, Victoria. He grinned. 

What did you call me, you sick bastard? What the fuck did you do to me?

Oh, my dear, sweet Victoria it’s not what I’ve done to you, but what I am going to do that should worry you.

She screamed. Her mind was racing nonstop asking the usual questions. Who? What? Why?

He leaned closer and she screamed in his face. She thrashed back and forth as he kissed her forehead gently.  She tried to claw his face off, but her hands and feet were restrained. She tried to head-butt him, but he pushed her head back down against the mattress. He kissed her head a little more forcefully this time. He pushed her head to the side and kissed her neck.

She screamed again as the realization kicked in.

What the fuck are you going to do? Rape me? Kill me?

Shh. Shh. Shh. Shh. Shhhh. Hey, could you please not talk?

What did you fucking say?

One more word and O-M-G are you going to get it.

He kissed her head again. He walked away as she stared at him. Oh my God! She just wanted to be home. She wanted to see her friends and family again. He walked back into the room holding a knife! God, help me get out of this alive.

Her screams echoed throughout the room. She tried to pull herself loose again, but the ropes were too tight. He reached down and grabbed her shirt. He cut it slowly, savoring the sight and sounds as the shirt was completely split open.

She spat at him as he started to slide his hand up her abdomen toward her bra. The other quickly brought the knife right up under her chin, forcing a muffled whimper.

Now don’t be like that, dear, he said. Nothing good will come from acting like that.

She stared at him with a mixture of horror and fury. She said nothing in return but lay still. Tears ran down her face at the thought of his disgusting hands touching her body. She started to close her eyes but saw a look on his face for just a second. The last thing she expected to see on his face was sadness.

His face snapped back to the previous look of pleasure and that daunting grin as he took the knife to her pants. When he finished his task, he walked back out of the room, leaving her lying on her flayed clothes. She couldn’t figure out why he left her bra and panties undamaged.  What the hell was with this guy?

Exhaustion was setting in. The physical and mental strain was too much. Emotionally, she felt broken, but as she gave in to sleep the glimpse of sadness came back to her.

She had no idea what time it was when she woke up or what day. The room didn’t have any windows or clocks. The lighting was sparse but bright enough to see the majority of the layout. There was the bed to which she was tied, a small table a few feet away, and an office chair. The only other noticeable feature was the door. The walls were plain and undecorated. The temperature was warm, but she didn’t see any vents or other sources.

She couldn’t hear any distinctive sounds coming from the door or tell if her captor was close. Actually, the silence was a little maddening. The only sound that she heard was the noise the bed made as she tried to shift her weight in an attempt to be comfortable.

She tried to process everything that had happened, but all she could do is cry more with every thought. Why did he pick her? She wasn’t a bad person. She didn’t deserve this. Her eyes closed again.

It’s time to wake up, Victoria.

He was sitting in the chair next to the bed looking at her. His hand was on her leg. In the other, he held a bottle.

Are you thirsty? he asked.

He came closer and lifted her head as he brought the bottle to her lips. This time she didn’t fight him as the water filled her mouth slowly. She was almost grateful for the drink. He put the bottle over on the table and turned back to her.

She watched him closely for a second. She noticed the look again right as he started back to the chair. He touched her face and she turned away slightly. Why didn’t she pull away as she had before? What’s the matter with her?

He smiled gently. It wasn’t the same mocking smile he had shown her before. He touched her face again and when she didn’t pull away this time he leaned down and kissed her. Much to her surprise, she kissed him back. She closed her eyes getting pulled into the passion of the moment. As she moaned he pulled back, kissed her forehead, and walked out of the room.

What the hell was that? Her mind was racing. Did she really just kiss him? This is the sick bastard that kidnapped her and tied her to this bed. He cut her clothes off her! Why the fuck was she kissing him? But her mind kept going back to that look on his face.  She closed her eyes again with the kiss looping in her memory.

She didn’t know how much time was passing. It all seemed like one eternal minute that never sped up and never slowed down. She just knew that each day he seemed kinder than and not as disgusting as she once believed. He fed her, gave her water, and he began to allow her to go to the bathroom and even shower. She was not allowed to do this alone, but it didn’t bother her nearly as much as it should have. After all, he was taking care of her.

They began to share meals together. He would bring the table next to the bed and sit across from her as they ate sandwiches and drank water. The food was simple but she no longer cared about things like that. She was only thankful for each day that he let her live. Each night that he tied her back up, he would kiss her deeply and then disappear until she woke up.

She began to tell him more about who she was and what she wanted to do with her life. She grew up in a relatively normal family. Both parents worked a lot but made time for her. She was an only child and had a few cousins, but no one really around her age. She enjoyed time with her family. She liked going out with her girlfriends. She had dated, but not nearly as many guys as he would think. She was going to school to become a nurse and make a difference. She wanted to help people.

He would always smile softly and add a few words, but never offered much information about his own life. She couldn’t figure out why this didn’t seem to bother her. He was a mystery. She was beginning to think he wasn’t going to hurt her.

One day when it was time to shower, she asked him to join her. He climbed in behind her and helped wash her hair. He washed her back and her legs letting her do the rest. The only thing he would do is rinse off, but he didn’t seem dirty. Actually, he was quite clean and attractive. She started to touch him, but he just took her hand. He kissed it and led her out of the shower to dry off. That night he kissed her even deeper and she felt her body tremor with desire. Once again, he left her for the night, tied to her bed and it no longer bothered her.

The next morning he woke her with a kiss on the cheek. She smiled as she opened her eyes. Her arms and legs were already untied. He sat down beside her as she stretched and rubbed her leg.

Would you ever try to leave me?

The question caught her by surprise. The reply that came from her lips surprised her even more, No, I would never.

Then I won’t ever tie you up again, my dear.

She smiled and wrapped her arms around him. He kissed her head and then her lips. She always wore simple nightgowns over top her undergarments. She loved the feel and freedom of them. She no longer cared about makeup. She only brushed her hair out, which she noticed had started to grow longer.

Will you stay with me tonight? she asked him with imploring eyes.

As you wish, my dear.

He smiled at her.

They spent the day together in their little space. She talked and laughed with him enjoying every second. He began to tell her stories about his childhood. He spoke of his little adventures as a boy growing up in a small area where there were few people around. He would build small structures in the woods. He had wanted to be an architect or maybe just a constructor or carpenter. He even built his own place which is where they were staying.

All of this fascinated her. He was so genuine and passionate when he talked about building things. She had already forgotten that she had been his prisoner. He was smart and funny. He never once tried to force himself on her. She couldn’t see him doing anything bad to her at all.

As it approached bedtime he kept his word and lay in the bed with her. He kissed her intensely and wrapped his arms around her. His body was warm against hers. She moved as close to him as she could. That’s when she knew how bad she wanted him, but when she started to hint at the idea he simply whispered to her, Not yet dear. I promise soon, but not yet.

She was disappointed, but he kissed her again. He wrapped his arm around her tighter and she fell asleep warm and happy. Strangely, it was the happiest she could ever remember being but it was getting harder to remember anything before him. Hopefully, he won’t hold back from her much longer.

They grew even closer as they spent less time apart. She was beside herself when he would leave for work. It wasn’t every day, thankfully but still often enough. Oh my God, did she miss him for that time they weren’t together? He had shown her where the kitchen was located. The fridge was always stocked with food and bottled water. She never thought about looking for a way out. She began to have meals waiting for him when he got back. Excitement radiated from her when he showed his pleasure and gratitude in this.

One night after an exceptionally made dinner, he beckoned her over to the bed. This time, before they lay down, he took his shirt off first, and they began to kiss. She could feel herself throb as his hands slid across her back. He pulled her closer and parted her legs with his knee. He pressed his thigh against her and she moaned. He slid his hand down to massage her, increasing the sound coming from her mouth.

She worked his pants down and began the same. He kissed her neck and thrust gently into her moving hand. He still worked his hand and fingers speeding up the rhythm. He stopped once so that she stiffened and moaned loudly.

They made love slowly and for several hours. He never stopped and she didn’t want him to. She didn’t even consider protection as he came in her multiple times. The only thing that mattered was that they were together and she loved him.

This became the nightly routine as they added more foreplay and different positions. It always started slowly and grew increasingly more aggressive. She loved it though because she loved him.

He quietly suggested that he tied her hands up to which she agreed. It was kinky and erotic, and he blew her mind even more than anything so far. How could she ever think that this man could hurt her? She didn’t even think about him not untying her when they had finished. She drifted off to sleep quickly.

When she had finally passed out, he got up and slipped out of the room. He walked back in with a plastic tub, a bandana, and a piercing needle. He stabbed her in the axillary artery and watched the blood start to pour from the needle. He positioned the tub perfectly to catch the red-hot liquid like one who is gathering maple sap from a spile. As her eyes opened and she started to scream he shoved the bandana in her mouth. She stared at him terrified.

His face was sad again as he kissed her forehead. As he walked away, he started to cry. The last thing she ever heard was this man that she had come to love whisper, I’m sorry.

Old Man

The old man took the call from the kid. He sounded a little shaken up on the phone, but it was his first kill. No matter what training he went through, he still wasn’t prepared for that first time. The younger man was sprawled out on the suede couch taking up most of the room on it. The old man shook his head and thought his counterpart was a disrespectful louse.

Hey, get up. That was the kid. It’s time to go.

He kicked the other man’s leg.

What the hell? You couldn’t just say it?

No, now get up so we can pick up the packages.

The younger man was flustered but didn’t argue. He scrambled to his feet. They made it to the door as the old man smacked him across the back of the head.

His hand went to the location of the blow.

What was that for?

Showing disrespect. Next time, if you want to lie around like a useless log, do it out of sight. You do not do it on the sofa.

Whatever.

They drove out to do their part of the job. They found the entrance and went inside. The body and container were in the agreed place. The body had been cleaned and wrapped. The container was in the fridge.

His technique seems a little crude but everyone’s is that first time, said the younger.

The old man leered at him.

He did what was necessary. It was clean and effective. Anything else would have wasted blood.

I’m just saying I would have gone a different direction.

He will learn. I did find it curious that he kept her alive for so long. Maybe it paid off better in the end. He still has too much of a tendency to become attached to others though.

He never got attached to your old ass, laughed the subordinate.

Watch your mouth, or I’ll have to pack out two dead bodies.

The fledgling cowered back a little, but not enough to truly be afraid. He picked up the body and struggled toward the SUV. The old man just shook his head. He packed the container of blood. He watched the younger man struggle with the back of the vehicle. He never offered to help though. It was a tiny sign of his true cruelty. A dark amusement flashed in his eye.

The younger man finally managed to load up the dead woman and they climbed into the car to return home. The rest of the family would be curious about the kid’s first job. 

Did you really have to just stand there and watch? We could’ve already left.

You got it, didn’t you? Just drive.

They hit the road and the old man kept staring through the side view.  He assessed everything from the previous scene. It was impressive that the kid managed to do it. He wondered if this was the one for whom they had been hoping.

It was too early for that though. He had a long way to go first. The journey may prove to be quite interesting. He had potential.

Furcas?

Yes, Ornias?

Do you think this could really be it? That this could be what we’ve been waiting for?

Furcas looked at the younger man for a second, I think it is very possible.

I think it’s very extremely possible, he thought. Now they had to wait for the kid’s next move.

Angela

Everyone told her she was crazy for wanting to live out in the old house by herself. It was her family home, though. It was the only thing she had left to remind her of her parents. After all, it wasn’t located that far from town. She still had cell phone service and had high-speed internet. What else could a recluse need? She didn’t drive, but that wasn’t a problem either with those new phone apps that helped you get a ride. Jitney even offered drivers in her area.

She used the app to get groceries and the occasional trip to the bar. She allowed herself a night out once a month. She needed it since she worked at home and rarely had company. To say that she had a social life was a complete laugh. She didn’t mind much though. This was her life, take it or leave it.

Her home was a two-story house on fifteen acres. The majority of the land was covered in trees except for a couple of acres surrounding the house. It had four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It was fully furnished but she only lived in the downstairs portion. She had everything she could need in that space. She considered herself a simple person and liked her life to be the same.

It was coming up on another night out and she was ready to have a few drinks. She needed the chance to be around people and a possibility for a one night stand or more. She was a woman. Oh fuck, that meant dressing up.

She didn’t mind it that much. It was just all the time she spent getting ready. She was so indecisive too. Not that she kept a lot of clothes but she always thought that she looked horrible in everything she owned. Not that she was close to being bad looking. She was quite the opposite with her dark hair and blue eyes. She stayed fit and slim despite loving to eat. Except for the times she sat working, she spent a lot of time outside.

She got her ride into town and went to her favorite bar. The Dusty Glass was such a weird name for a bar, she thought, but it had a fun atmosphere. No one ever fought there like some of the others and there were normally some familiar faces and good looking guys. There was already a decent crowd with plenty of room at the bar.

She didn’t think anyone really stuck out to her though. It was a quiet night. She had a few drinks, danced a couple of times when she was asked, but nothing special. She left early. She was looking pretty disappointed when her ride showed up.

He was a nice guy. He smiled way too much and had an awkward turn to his attempts at conversation. He was kind of cute though. She laughed at her tipsy thought. Buddy, say the right thing and it might be your lucky night. She smiled to herself, which he seemed to notice.

You have a great smile.

He blushed as the thought came out his mouth.

Thanks, she laughed, which caused him to blush more. Say, you wouldn’t happen to live somewhere close, do you? I live all the way out of town, but I’m kind of horny. You’re kind of hot. So what do you say?

He smiled and blushed again.

Well, I guess this ride is on me then.

They both laughed as he stopped the app and punched in his card number to pay for the fare. Then they changed directions to head to his place. The ride wasn’t very long thank God. She didn’t want to lose her nerve.

They walked into the house and she started kissing him. He grabbed hold of her and pulled her close which turned her on even more.

He picked her up and sat her on his hips. One hand was squeezing her ass and the other was helping clear the way to his bed. They laughed as they made it there safely. Their clothes went flying everywhere as she discovered the man had more passion than she could even imagine. He proved himself to be somewhat of a gentleman by supplying the protection and making sure it was applied.

Hours flew by. She was amazed that he had any strength left, but he never seemed to run out of steam. They finally finished and she passed out on his arm. He rolled over and wrapped his arm around her and smiled.

He drove her home after they got some sleep. They had that discomfort that can come from having sex with someone the first time they meet. Still, she liked him. He made goofy jokes just to make her laugh, but she didn’t know what to think.

Can I see you again? he was blushing again.

She thought for a moment, Yeah, I’d like that, but I don’t even know your name.

It’s Shawn. What’s your name?

I’m Angela.

Beautiful name, he said. She laughed despite herself.

They exchanged numbers and made plans to see each other in a few nights. He waved and smiled as he left. She did the same while leaning against her doorframe. The day looked even brighter and it was warm out so she sat on the porch. The previous night kept playing over and over in her head as she smiled even more. What in the hell was happening? She just met the guy. What if something was wrong with him?

There was only one way to know for sure since she would dwell on it until she saw him again. Right at the moment, her mind started to kick into hyper-drive, her phone buzzed. The name on the text message made her smile.

HEY, I WANTED TO SAY THANKS FOR AN INCREDIBLE NIGHT AND I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN.

She started laughing. Is the man psychic? She messaged him back and never put the phone back down that night. They talked well into the night about everything they could. She fell asleep with her phone in her hand.

The time apart began to draw out slowly as if it punished her for being away from him. Their time together was the complete opposite. The dates, the talks, and the sex were so intense that time was relative. Then they started spending more time together.

All she could think about was the moment they would both be off work and he would come over. Nothing was ever boring when he was around. She had become really attached to this man. He was so sweet and good to her. Could he actually be the one?

How could she think like that right now? It had only been a month. And weren’t things going incredibly well? They never fought. He tried to spoil her all the time. Seriously, what’s wrong with him?

She started to get lost in her thoughts, but he brought her back with a kiss on the cheek. She giggled. He picked her up and spun her around. They were pretty far into the woods enjoying the nice weather. When he put her down, they kissed again and this time with more intention. They took advantage of their solitude since it was hard for her to stay quiet. It was such a turn on making love with nothing but trees and birds around them. Damn, this man is amazing. She finished him off in her own way.

He spent the night since they were nowhere near being done with each other. They were starting to get careless too, but she no longer seemed to care. She just wanted him.

The next day she smacked him on the ass as he left for work and sat down to do her own work. She worked for an online merchandising company. She handled incoming orders and made sure shipping was assigned. She kept getting distracted by their conversation about him keeping some stuff at her place and coming back after work to her. He would be coming home to her. It was going to be hard to get any work done.

She managed to cover her quota though, and started cooking dinner. He agreed to pick the wine up to go with the meal. Veal, potatoes, and a salad weren’t what she considered an exceptional meal. It was a damn good one though.

He pulled into the drive and walked up the steps. She met him at the door and kissed him. He laughed.

Are we going to make it through dinner?

She grinned mischievously, I haven’t decided yet.

Laughing together they went in to eat. Of course, it was hard to focus on the food as they continued to tease each other. He kept her waiting though. Then to make it worse, he turned on some music to dance with her first. She laughed even more as he spun her around.

She made her move though and began kissing his neck. Everything escalated quickly after that. Clothes began to fall. They were trying to make their way to the bedroom. Both were reaching for the inner passion of the other.

They finished much sooner than normal covered in sweat and the effects of the increased serotonin. She was lying with her head on his chest. He had his arms wrapped tightly around her. They both prayed it would last forever. She didn’t notice the sadness in his eyes.

They fell asleep in the same position but eventually moved to a more natural position. She slept peacefully among dreams of happy memories. He tossed and turned with dark nightmares. He was still fighting with demons that only he knew. The same demons would be coming for them soon.

He woke up before daylight and went to the kitchen to make some coffee. He was on his second pot and making breakfast when she came out of the bedroom. She watched him from the doorway until he noticed her standing there in his t-shirt. They closed the distance between them and kissed.

I couldn’t sleep so I cooked. Are you hungry?

I think I can eat, she said. She hugged him tightly, then walked over to the table and sat down. He brought her a plate. She looked at the collection. There were eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, biscuits, and gravy. She looked up at him when she realized he was asking something.

What would you like to drink, dear?

Um, coffee is fine.

He got her a cup and set it down next to her plate. He finished preparing his own plate and cup then joined her at the table. They sat and ate while talking about work. They didn’t have long before they had to get ready and start the rest of the day. Of course, he would be back by supper.

He worked part-time for a law firm as well as driving for Jitney. He made enough to live on working for the firm. He always said he drove so that he knew others would get home safely. The extra money has been just a bonus. It was mainly so no one had an accident like his dad did when he was a kid. His dad didn’t survive the crash.

They took a shower together and got ready. He kissed her intensely at the door and she waved at him as he pulled out of the driveway. She didn’t know he was in the car the night his dad died. She didn’t know how he survived. That was not a story he was going to tell yet.

She worked on her list of orders and answered some customer questions. When it slowed down, she did the little bit of housework that was left to do. He cleaned up the dishes after breakfast. All that was really left was sweeping and laundry.

She just finished up sweeping the kitchen and was starting the laundry when it hit her. She barely made it to the commode before the contents of her stomach emptied. She groaned and felt nauseous. What the hell could be wrong with her? An idea popped into her head, but that was crazy. It couldn’t be that. She found a calendar and began to count.

Dinner was almost ready when he made it. She was standing in the door smiling, being the vision of beauty she truly was. Although all comments about how beautiful she was often falling on deaf ears or received a lot of denial. He still told her anyway.

He made it to the door when she pushed it open and reached up for a kiss.

Can I get a ride into town tomorrow? she asked.

Are you asking me as your boyfriend or your driver?

She elbowed him in the gut and he over-exaggerated the seriousness of the injury. She rolled her eyes at him and smiled.

Which do you think will get you laid?

Do you want an actual answer to that? he laughed. He threw up his hands in defense to block her incoming blow. You know I’ll take you, dear.

Okay, thanks, she smiled at him. There’s something special I want to make for dinner and have to get some stuff from the store.

He looked at her then brightened up like he got an idea.

Well, if you want, since we will already be in town. We could always stay at my place if you would like.

Her face lit up.

That sounds great! I haven’t been to your house since that first night we met. 

The thought made her giggle a little which was building into a squeal as he started nibbling on her neck. She was defenseless to fight back despite her attempts. He finally stopped but picked her up instead. He packed her to the kitchen on his shoulder. She was beyond happy with the man carrying her. She loved him and now she knew she wanted to tell him. She just wanted to be one hundred percent positive before she did after dinner.

That night was much like the previous. However, she was the one who couldn’t sleep. He slept deeply and still for once. Angela had to take a couple of extra trips to the bathroom. She was starting to notice details about the toilet that had never caught her attention. The next day couldn’t come soon enough. She finally fell asleep when he rolled over had his arm around her. She felt safe. She felt warm. She felt loved.

The next day she woke up to breakfast again. She ate sparingly this time and drank water. He seemed surprised but didn’t question her about it. That was the first time she saw a glimpse of the sadness. She felt a little guilty and ate an extra slice of toast. Why shouldn’t she feel guilty? He fixed such a wonderful meal for her and she was afraid to eat too much.

They never spoke of it though. She talked to him about what she would like to do. The grocery store was the only one of the stops with the final destination being his house of course. She talked with energy and excitement. He just smiled at her and reached over to kiss her forehead.

This is your day, dear. It’s, however, you would like us to spend it. All that matters to me is that I’m spending it with you.

They got ready after taking an extra steamy shower. Then after they gathered a few things they left for town.  The little country road did not last long, but neither did he with what she was doing to distract herself from the idea of motion sickness. He then insisted that they just hold hands the rest of the way. It was not a lack of pleasure, but he needed to be able to concentrate on driving in town. She squeezed harder each time nausea crept upon her. Thankfully, it wasn’t more than a thirty-minute drive to the first stop.

He wasn’t sure why she wanted to stop at the hardware store, but he went in to buy some supplies as well. She was busy looking at gardening supplies as he made his purchase. He slipped it in the trunk and came back in to help her. She finally purchased some hand tools for her flower garden and light bulbs. He stuck her bag in the back seat when they got the car. Then they were off to the next stop at a small flea market.

They found a stand that sold pipes, bongs, tie-dye shirts, Jamaican and grateful dead flags, and incense. She bought some incense and a holder. He was amused by the sign beside the pipes, For tobacco use only.

They made it to the store a few minutes later. He went to find beverages, saying he hardly kept anything there anymore. He didn’t think anything about her not wanting anything with alcohol in it. She hurried to pick up the main item she wanted from the pharmacy in the back. She purchased it there and hid it in her purse. She failed completely at looking inconspicuous as she went back to selecting the items that she wanted for the meal. When he found her, she was heading toward the checkout counters. He paid for everything and then loaded it all in the car for her.

That night she prepared what he had told her was his favorite meal- steak, baked potatoes, green beans, and a salad with croutons, eggs, and kidney beans covered in ranch dressing. While she cooked he was busy straightening up his house, although it was relatively spotless. She thought he was just stressing about having her over. He was stressing about having her over. He calmed down when she told him to come to eat instead of fidgeting. Shawn laughed at himself and kissed her. They sat down at the table discussing everything that came to mind, especially about their future together. They didn’t want things to ever end.

After dinner, she went off to the bathroom to take a bath. He went back through the house toward the bedroom. He turned some music on and lit some candles. He burned some of the incense she had bought then went to wash the dishes in the kitchen.

She found him in the bedroom sitting on the end of the bed. He had that same glimpse of sadness in his eyes, but it faded with a bright smile. He held out his hand to her so she walked over to take it. He had his hands on her waist as he admired the lingerie she had chosen.

I have something to tell you, Shawn, she started.

Before she could finish he was up and kissing her. Her words fell away from her as he helped her on the bed and kissed his way around her body. She lost all thought as he made his way to her other lips to lick and suck until all she could do was moan. He spun her around and put her on top of him so they could continue to pleasure each other. They didn’t want to stop, but he was ready for more of her and turned her again.

Can I tie you up? he asked while behind her. In her euphoria, all she could do was agree.

With her hands tied to the headboard, he continued from behind while kissing her neck. Then she was on her back since he left enough slack to keep it from hurting her. Their eyes locked as they got there together.  She never thought things could be like this before him. She truly loved this man.

I love you.

I love you too.

She looked into his eyes and could tell he wasn’t just saying it.

He untied her and they curled up together. He played with her hair. She had lost her nerve about telling him. After all, those three words were huge. She fell asleep a few minutes later lying against him.

She never felt him get up or heard him walk across the room and back to the bed. She never knew about the chloroform he had on the rag to make sure she wouldn’t wake up. She couldn’t tell that she had been completely moved to another location.

She woke up in drunken confusion. She knew that couldn’t be right since she didn’t drink anything. She started to wipe her face and that’s when she fully woke up. She was tied up again! What the fuck was this? This wasn’t Shawn’s house! Where was she?

Shawn?! Where are you, Shawn?

Oh, I see you’re awake, he said. He crossed the room and kissed her on the head.

Is this some kind of sick fucking joke?

Something like that.

What’s going on? What the fuck is this?

He walked closer to her. He looked at her with tears in eyes. She looked at him and he turned away shaking his head.

I can’t. I can’t. I can’t!

Can’t what? What can’t you do? You said you loved me!

I do!

Tears were streaming down his face. His face was completely contorted. He was fighting a battle she could not see but had no doubt that if he lost they both did. She sobered at that thought and watched him.

Now listen, Shawn, she started. I’m going to tell you something very important that might make this easier. So please listen to me.

What’s that? What could help this situation? What the fuck could it be?!?

Shawn. I’m...

That’s not my real name.

Her eyes grew wide as he stabbed her and the blood began to flow heavily.

... Pregnant.

He dropped to his knees. His eyes were wide despite the crying. The anguish in his voice was real.

I’m so sorry, Angela. I love you.

He crawled on the bed and lay beside her. He held her tight, crying. He kept apologizing and held her until she stopped breathing. When she was gone he got up and dialed the number.

It’s done. How much longer do I have to keep doing this?

Until your debt is repaid.

The call ended.

Shawn

Shawn cleaned up the room. He carefully cleaned her body and wrapped it in plastic. He kissed her head one last time before covering it. The tears were still in his eyes despite how hard he fought them. He sealed the tub with her blood in it and stored it in the walk-in refrigerator like he did the other times. When everything was ready, he made the next phone call he always has to make.

Hello? Yes, everything is ready for pick up and disposal. Yes. She was.

The call ended and he left.

He returned to her house and gathered the few belongings he had there. He wiped everything for prints and sprayed everything down to prevent any type of clues from DNA to be possibly found. He knew it wouldn’t take long for the body to be found once it was dropped off. It didn’t take long for Victoria’s body to be found.

Nothing came of it of course. He had help covering his tracks and everything was always set up with prepaid phones. Everything was disposable, even him. The only way he would ever be caught was if they knew about the pictures. None of them were ever shared or stored online. He wiped the old phone once he transferred the pictures to