Chapter 23: Empty Eyes, Frozen Heart

I just quietly obeyed his command so that we could finish there. I got a black dress shirt on his rack of clothes. I handed it to him.

"Here," I said.

His forehead creased. Did not accept.

"What? You said you want a black–"

"Help me wear it. Do I have to say that too?"

I sighed and swallowed all the irritation and impatience. Remember your goals, Serra. Be patient. Just a little more patience.

I helped him put the sleeves on each arm. I held my breath because of the irritation. He noticed it. I know because I saw mockery in his eyes as he watched me buttoning his shirt. He badly wants to torture me and this is his way. My anger and misery satisfies him.

"I can see that you don't like doing this. Why not give up, instead? Just tell me what I want to know and you'll be freed."

I finished the last button before looking up at him. I equaled his dark stare with dauntless eyes filled with grit.

"Thank you, but no. I don't intend to give up. I'd rather be killed."

His eyes grew grimmer by th