I pull the covers closer around me. I do it every night as though they’ll protect me, but they won’t. No one can protect me. This is something that has to happen. I ruined her life. When she had me, everything changed. She’s hurting because of me. Dad’s never nice to her anymore. He always makes her cry now. When he hits her, she hits me. It’s only fair, she says. I deserve it. I should never have been born.

I hear the door creak open and shut behind her. I know it’s coming. The belt comes down hard and I cry out as little as possible. I hear her, but I ignore it. I feel the pain, but I pretend I’m numb. I think about Tommy. As long as she stays here, he’s safe. He didn’t do anything. It’s not his fault. It’s my fault. I try to be good and stay quiet, but the belt whips through the air and smacks across my face. I can’t help that I screamed.

I can’t help it. I hear them coming. No! I shake my head as she shoves the belt under the covers. My heart beats faster. I tried to be good. I tried. Please forgive me.

My eyes slowly open and and my body seems frozen. It takes a moment for my heart to calm. I’m used to this. Everything will be fine. It’s nothing that matters anymore. My racing heart is the only indication that I’ve had that fucking nightmare again. I clear my throat and get my shit together. I do my best to feel nothing, and for the most part that’s true.

I don’t feel a god damned thing reliving that memory.

I look over to my alarm and move the switch before the clock has a chance to display 6:00 AM and go off. I can’t remember the last time the alarm actually had a chance to go off. It doesn’t matter though, as long as I’m up to start the day.

I check my phone again. Vince still hasn’t written me back.

I look at the last message he sent me. It reads, 1 month. I have one month with her until the Cassanos want proof that she’s dead.

One month, my ass. I’m not giving her up in a month. No fucking way. I’ve only just gotten my hands on her.

I calm myself by thinking about how she’s safe here. Having her in her room soothes the beast inside of me. My kitten is where she belongs, and she’s adjusting well.

She cried for nearly an hour last night. I hated watching her break down like that. It’s only natural though. And now that it’s out of her system, she’s taken to her surroundings well. She checked everywhere for an escape though. I chuckle as I make my way to the monitors in the closet.

Her alarm is going to go off at 7 a.m., and she’s still curled up in bed. I imagine she’s going to want to fight me on this one. She’s used to getting up at 8 a.m. I’d be happy to let her have the extra hour, if she asks. I may prime her to ask for permission so she can see that I’m willing to adjust for her. But I’m not sure she’ll bring it up and risk going back to the cell. She might be afraid that even just asking me will displease me. Her fear is a big part of what’s holding us back. I just need to give her time and let that dissipate.

I watch her sleeping peacefully and something inside of me seems to shift into place. I know everything is going to work out perfectly. Every ounce of worry leaves me.

I walk with purpose to the bathroom and go about my daily ritual. I look at my reflection in the mirror and run my hand over the stubble on my jaw. I need to get myself together before I go to her. And she should be doing the same for me. She isn’t though.

I cluck my tongue before pulling out the razor and shaving cream.

I’m happy about that. This will be a perfect training opportunity. I asked her if she needed me to explain what being a submissive means, and she said no. She was wrong. Obviously my little kitten missed some vital information in her books. She should always be presentable for me. I can’t wait to show her what happens when she doesn’t meet my expectations. My kitten’s in for a treat.

As I rinse the razor in a hot stream of water, my phone pings. I close my eyes with frustration.

I’ve told them I’m taking some time off, but Tommy insists I’m needed. I’d do anything for my brother, but sometimes he gets on my fucking nerves.

I text him back that I’ll meet him later tonight. I just want to enjoy this, but instead I feel tense. It’s because I know they’re going to take her from me.

They can’t.

He said I could have this.

He gave me his word.

I don’t give a fuck about the business that we get from the Cassanos, or what their expectations were. I bought her, so she’s mine to do whatever I fucking want with her.

And right now, I want to get information from her, whip her ass for not being ready and then have her writhing beneath me.

My shoulders loosen up and I let out an easy breath as my dick springs to life. Maybe if I just keep all the blood in my cock I won’t get so fucking worked up over Vince and his lack of a god damned backbone.

I splash some water on my face and pat it dry. I’m only in pajama pants that are hanging low on my hips, and my erection is obvious. That’s good though. I want her to know how much I want her.

I look back in the mirror and breathe easy.

It’s only me and her right now.

Time to play with my kitten.