Chapter 14

I quickly shut my eyes, pretending to be asleep. I kept repeating in my mind, I can’t see him, I can’t see him, I can’t see him. But my body trembled slightly, betraying my emotions. His footsteps drew closer. He walked toward the bed. My heart raced, nearly leaping into my throat. Suddenly, a cold sensation swept over me as the blanket was lifted. I froze in fear, keeping my eyes tightly shut, my legs stiffened, desperately telling myself, I’m sleeping, I’m sleeping. As long as I didn’t see his face, he wouldn’t hurt me. “I know you’re awake. Open your eyes and look at me, or I’ll make you suffer before killing you,” he whispered in my ear. My mind went blank, and the terror made me open my eyes. My voice trembled as I said, “If I open my eyes, please don’t kill me… please don’t kill…” Before I could finish, I saw his face clearly. It was none other than Alexander. My expression stiffened—a mix of fear, confusion, and a little embarrassment. I had forgotten tha