Chapter 194: Machala

I knew I went too far... told Luke too much. The wine had relaxed me and sitting with him outside our usual parameters lulled me into a false sense of security. I saw his expression and even though he passed off what I revealed as no big deal, Luke saw the real story within the story. Starvation, loyalty, refusing to give up-it was all there. I hadn't thought about Mickey the dog in years-only a figment of my imagination but a key piece to who I was.

I didn't feel well. Luke ate quietly and drank another glass of wine. I nervously tried to think of a way out, but I couldn't.

"You don't like what I ordered for you?" he asked with concern.

Hell, I might vomit. "It's good. I'm full."

That look came over his face. I'd seen it many times when a coming punishment had me picking at my food unable to eat. He never stood for it and I wondered what he would do now.

"You've barely eaten." Not the usual, Eat, girl, it will only be worse if you don't.

I could see it in his eyes, though. I cut