HIM

I don't go straight back to the island. Watching the road and the sky, I make sure no one follows. Striding up the walkway, I feel her eyes on me and glance up. She stands on the balcony, and I pause when her hand rises, waving. Could she have missed my presence? If she did, it'll make my next step even easier. I had watched her friend, Aislin. She had sat crying on the cliff as the sun rose. The guardian tried to comfort her, but nothing eased her fears. I watched until Jason joined her, the tension in his body told me everything I needed to know. This woman, Emma, is the way to achieving everything I want. I will use her to destroy them all. Grinning, I wave back at her.

In my office, I check and see that I received an update from the investigator with details of her early life, of her family's struggle, and how she pushed to get to a better place. It shows me that she becomes singularly focused on the things she wants, and I plan to be the next thing. Leaning back, I let my mind drift, imagining being her next obsession, chewing my lip as I rub my hands on my thighs. Shaking my head, I must prepare for our dinner.

* * *

EMMA

Narrowing my eyes, I watch him move inside. I spent the night planning what I was going to do. The only thing certain is I must to escape this island. His smile chills me. He thinks it is reassuring. Well, it isn't. I thought a lot about what I will do to get out of here. Aislin survived rape and torture. I know he isn't going to do that. He thinks I don't know this is a game but I do, one that I plan on winning. Moving inside, I sit on the bed, pulling my knees up to rest my chin. I think of the documentaries daddy had me watch about POWs and how they would pretend to submit but would be fighting the whole time. I listened to daddy. I know he watches me and it takes every bit of willpower not to look at the camera. Easing off the bed and grabbing my bag, I walk to the bathroom adding a bit of slink. I close the door, lean back, and try to steady my nerves. It will be dinner time soon, and I know he will come. I pick through all of my clothes and pull out a pair of cutoffs and a cute top. He won't suspect anything like he would if I dressed up. Going out with Aislin over the years taught me how to garner attention in this type of outfit when I want to. I paint my toes and fingernails. Applying my makeup subtly, I highlight my eyes and freckles. Letting my hair down, I brush and brush it until it gleams like fire in the light, add a little product to help with the curls. I stare at myself in the mirror, adding a touch of gloss to my lips and nod my head. Just as I finish, he calls my name. I draw in a deep breath trying to stop my pounding heart. Putting on my games face, I turn. Let the games begin.

"Just a sec," I call out and paste a smile on my face as I open the door. He is dressed in a blue tailored shirt that he knows brings out his eyes, eyes which are caressing up my bare legs. I am thankful for years of people leering at me while I dance. It steels my nerves. Just keep smiling, Em, Aislin's voice sounds in my head and strengthens my resolve.

* * *

HIM

Her pale skin fairly glows as she steps from the bathroom. She is wearing denim shorts frayed at the edges, and I can't help but let my eyes travel the length of her legs. I expected her to be dressed for dinner, but she looks as if she might be going got the beach. Annoyance bubbles up in me, but I smile at her.

"Are you ready for dinner, Emma? I trust everything was fine while I was gone."

Her smile widens, "Yes, everyone was very considerate."

I hear the truth in her words. Good. Maybe she’s ready to trust me. She moves by me, and her hair tickles along my arm, and it takes much of my willpower not to grasp hold of it. "I thought we would dine down by the water tonight. There is no need for you to remain cooped up here in your room." Grasping her elbow, I lead her to the stairs.

We walk along the path to the table I had brought by the water. Pulling her chair out, I urge her to sit. Moving to my own seat, I lean back and watch her watch the waves. Our food arrives, and as we eat, she talks about her home, about the city, and the music. I don’t fail to notice that she says nothing about her family or friend. Maybe she isn't as stupid as I thought. I look at her, her eyebrows are raised as she waits, and I know I missed a question. "I'm sorry. I was picturing your city. It sounds fascinating."

"Awe, bless your heart. That's okay. I was just wonderin' how such a nice man like you got mixed up with all this."

Blinking, I consider my answer. I could lie. A partial truth might help win her over. "Do you believe in myths, Emma? Did your very best friend tell you that they are real? I recall you saying when we first met that you two shared everything. It seems to me that something as big as the existence of the Gods and Goddess from ancient myths would be something she would tell you." Her face shows no reaction. "I have my answer then. She did tell you. What if I told you they are vicious, spiteful creatures? Would you believe me?"

"I honestly don't know. I only know what Aislin told me. If they are as you say, then she is in trouble. Tell me your story," she leans towards me, elbows resting on the table.

Truth. Her honesty is refreshing in a world of liars. I have a sudden desire to tell her everything, every degrading fact of my life.