Chapter 12
Steve
His Doll
“Come here, doll,” Steve barked, slamming the door shut behind him.
He marched through the hall, waiting impatiently.
The clack of metal drew his attention and then a small blonde woman made her way around the corner, her progress strained by the shackles that rested around her ankles.
“There you are.” Steve lifted his hand as she approached causing her to flinch back, but he caught her chin.
He took her in. Murky blue eyes, brown roots showing, wrinkles on her dress, too much fat.
“A filthy replacement.” He slapped her. “A useless doll.” This time when he hit her, she fell to the ground.
“An ugly mistake.” He placed a loafer on her face, pushing her into the hardwood below.
“Soon, I won’t have any need for you, but until then, you are to keep up appearances. ”
“I’m sorry,” the woman murmured demurely, shaking beneath him. “Father.”
Steve’s blood sung at the word. Steve’s adopted daughter, Hallie, had brought him this girl a few years back. She wasn’t quite who he was looking for, wasn’t exactly the replacement he wanted, but the girl had lasted longer than any of the others.
“That’s better, Eve. Now go clean yourself up. Soon enough you will meet your sister.” He released her, turning away and pulling out his phone.
The clacking was barely audible over the hum of anger that pierced his temple. James had arrived at the airport, but he hadn’t taken the cab as planned. He had gotten into a nondescript black vehicle.
What is this? Who is he with?
Steve spun around, wanting to expel his wrath on his doll, but she was gone.
Smart girl.
No matter, he always enjoyed a game of cat and mouse.