Chapter 14

My ankles burned from the wild contact they made with the rough ground as I was dragged into the darkness. I struggled to free myself, but the hand over my mouth was pressed down very tightly. The one holding me was a very strong person and no doubt a man.

I had to do it; I had to stop him. I used my elbow as a weapon and buried it in the attacker's stomach. He let out a groan of pain as he released me. I quickly fell to my knees.

Émilie! I managed to scream, but before I could stand up, a hand yanked my hair harshly. I winced in pain as I was forced to my feet. I wanted to turn around and face the attacker… but I couldn’t.

He pulled my hair in a sharp tug, making me arch backward. My back crashed into his chest. Releasing my hair, he slid his arm over mine, snugly against it, effectively limiting my movements.

Émilie! Help me! I screamed as loud as I could.

He used his free hand to cover my mouth, “Shhhhh.” I felt his warm breath on my ear.

“Shhhhh, Anaís, shhhh, calm dow