Chapter 045

"Amelia..." Is all I can say as I watch her lips quiver beside me, doing all she can to hold back the tears. I feel like such an asshole. A fucking dumb one. Fucking hell.

"He stopped me when I was going up to meet you yesterday. He showed me the recording. It was clear. It was us. On your desk. He is asking...he said...he wants..." Amelia's voice tapers off as she runs out of breath and a cry escapes her lips.

I hold her against my body. Feeling an equal mix of rage and shame. Whilst I was busy acting like a lovestruck jealous teenager, Amelia was getting abused by that kid. I can't imagine how scared she must have been. How much blame she must have heaped on herself. How terrible she must have felt. Oh God. My blood boils with the thought of it.

"He said I shouldn't tell you." Amelia's body shakes as she cries against my chest. My hands are in tight fists. Of course, the bastard asked her not to tell me.

"He asked for money..." She continues. I am no longer actively listening. I am