CHAPTER FOURTEEN
“I’m offering you a lifetime of security and safety, Nicole,” he said smiling at the young woman.
“Security and safety? Is that what you call the ropes around my wrists and ankles? Security and safety. You’re crazy. Certifiably crazy. When my roommates and boyfriend can’t find me, they’ll call the police.”
“And what will they find? A young woman off partying in the city full of sins. No messages on your phone will appear from me. They’ve all been erased. See, I’m not just a professor in the medical field, I’m an avid student of technology.”
“Someone will find me. No woman in her right mind would take your proposal. No one. And neither will I.”
“You will,” he smiled. “You will in time or you’ll meet the same fate as your classmate.”
Nicole’s face blanched and she realized what was happening. How. How had he done this?
“Y-you killed Ara. Why? She did nothing wrong. She was kind and sweet and had her whole life ahead of her. Why would you kill her?”
“It’s really quite simple. She refused me.
” Nicole’s face showed her fear in spite of her efforts.
“That’s right. You’re catching on now. I gave her the same wonderful opportunity that I’m giving you.
Now, I’m sure you’re disappointed that you were not my first choice, but please understand it was a very difficult decision to make. ”
Nicole shook her head, slowly, barely even aware of her own movements. He was truly mad.
“This offer is a taxing offer but over time, I have no doubt that you’ll find your rhythm and we’ll get along well. I’m turning forty-eight next month. I need children. Sons.”
“Sons? Children? I can’t guarantee you’ll have sons. No woman can guarantee that. What happens if it’s a girl?”
“Well, as you can imagine there are others who have the same beliefs as me. They’re often looking for young women for their sons. I have no doubt if we had a daughter she would be beautiful and intelligent. She would understand the work put before her.”
Nicole was gently pulling on the ropes behind her back, hoping to wiggle free. The rough threads were breaking her skin and she could feel the trickle of blood on her hands.
“It’s of no use, Nicole,” he smiled. “I’m also an expert with knots. See. I have many, many talents and I can assure you I’ll make you happy.”
“I won’t do this. I refuse,” she said glaring at him.
He laughed. It was cold and maniacal. Staring down at her beautiful face, he knelt beside her gripping her jaw.
“You will agree to this or you will die. It’s that simple.
Now, I have some things to take care of.
You sit right here and think about your decision.
I’ll be back soon and if you’re good, I’ll allow you to cook dinner for me.
A sort of test of your skills.” He jerked her head sideways and stood to leave.
“I. Don’t. Cook.”
“I’d suggest you learn,” he frowned. He turned the television on and scanned to the cooking channel. “Here. Something to inspire you.”
He left the small house, slamming the door shut. She could hear the locks becoming engaged and realized that they were all on the outside of the house. She had just enough room to push herself up and onto the sofa so she could see out the windows.
“Where am I?” she whispered.
Beyond she could see only trees, thick, dense forests. There didn’t seem to be any neighbors, no streets, no traffic, no water. She was terrified.
“God, help me.”