Ch. 43: Finish This

RIEKA

Aleksandr’s eyes rake over my entire body frantically, I’m sure he’s looking for any sign of injury to confirm Silas’ lie about punishing me. When he doesn’t see anything wrong, I recognize the combination of confusion and relief in him, but then he voices his concerns. I nod my head to let him know that I’m fine, but the concern in his eyes grows at my refusal to speak.

I desperately want to ask Aleksandr about my kids, but I also want to get out of here as quickly as possible, so I want to avoid any unnecessary drama. If cooperating and not speaking will help speed up negotiations, then I can comply.

Then, Silas opens his mouth again. “Maybe I underestimated my position here. It seems that having Rieka as my prisoner gives me more power than I initially anticipated. She’s even more important to you than I expected. Let’s take the rest of the night to think it over and meet again tomorrow. I think I’ll be increasing my demands.”

My eyes go wide, and my mouth drops o