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41: This Place Harbors Two-Timing, Grudge Holding Morons. And Maybe Even Demons

Author: K.L. Novitzke
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-07 06:46:50

ASHTON

I retreat from the room to circle the halls. Circling and circling, plotting and planning. And like the heavens open...or the gates of Hell, I spot an unguarded door. The large cutout window showcases a bright sunny day just beyond it’s threshold. “Bingo.”

Lurking the halls, tip-toeing my way to it, my freedom comes slamming back into my rebellious soul. It tastes sweet. I twist the doorknob only to come to a crashing halt. Locked. The thud my head makes as it falls against the door is similar to the thump of my heart taking a heavy, slow beat. Resounding.

“Lost?” I spin around to find Rafe behind me. He’s still in his uniform just like all the other times I’ve seen him. Does everyone here live in these things? “Are you lost,” he mutters. His fingers go to touch his cheek, “you have blood on your face.”

I quickly swat at my cheek in the same spot his fingers grazed his own face. I have no idea if I got it off or it’s still there, staining my skin. It doesn’t help that my hands
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