Love and War
Copyright © 2020, B.J Rosethorn
Sneak Peak
Visitors
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Aurora started her day like any other, chores. Having to
be up at five in the morning sharp. Coffee and breakfast on the table by
five-thirty. Throwing her strawberry hair into a messy bun and getting on a set
of jeans and a t-shirt she headed into the kitchen.
As soon as she got there, she scrambled eggs, fried bacon,
heated hash browns and toasted bread. Getting the coffee on at exactly
five-fifteen so it is fresh and ready when her dad arrives. During breakfast
there was no small talk with her father. He read the paper with the occasional
groan or mumble. Knowing better than to start the conversation, no speaking
unless spoken to.
After her father was done Aurora
cleared the table and started the clean up as usual. Jayme, her father never
stayed long; he was out the door by six-fifteen in the morning Monday to
Saturday most Sundays too. He would usually return home promptly at six-thirty in
the evening but was late various times ranging from minutes to hours.
He never told her when he’d be late. After the first time,
when Aurora had worried. Jayme informed her in his own way that was how jobs
worked.
While her father was out she was expected to complete all
housework, maintenance, and upkeep around the property. The schedule in the
house was the same day in and out. Growing mundane in some ways. Seeing as
spring was coming, she had to add the seasonal and landscaping duties to her
list of to-do’s.
Finishing up the kitchen she made her way to the bedrooms to
make beds, tidy up and collect laundry. The house was modest in size, a
bungalow. Two bedrooms with a basement. Their yard was large and provided space
for a garden, greenhouse, pool, and workshop making it a pain to keep
maintained in the heat of summer.
The basic housework didn't take long to complete by
eight-thirty she was onto yard work and seed germination in the greenhouse she
built when she was sixteen. A project that caused a lot of heart ache but
taught her a lot in responsibility.
Stopping for lunch just after noon. It was always more a
quick sandwich. Leaving the dishes, she returned outside to finish the raking
and the other yard work. Aurora knew she'd have to be done by three-thirty to
clean up and get dinner ready by six-thirty.
Didn’t matter if Jayme was late, he expected her to have
dinner ready at that time sharp. Aurora never wanted to risk being late since
the first time.
Thinking back to it brought a shudder over her. Not knowing
why her father hated her so much almost made it worse. She could only imagine
someone with such deep hate could hit so hard. That is why Aurora called him
Jayme, to her a father was to love and protect unconditionally.
Something she had never seen or known.
Aurora finished dinner just before six-thirty. Putting the
oven on warming, placing in the roast, potatoes, and steamed veggies. Popping
the yorkshore puddings in the microwave to avoid moisture.
Aurora sat at that table and waited, by six forty-five she
knew it was okay to leave the table.
It took awhile for her to figure out Jayme’s triggers and
expectations. Aurora had learned some quicker than others. It did not take
several beatings for her to learn. Not to mention how young he started training
her, grooming her to more of a maid than a daughter.
Aurora went over to the living room and grabbed her book.
Reading felt like her escape from this reality, she tried writing once but
Jayme lost it when he found it. Jayme had been three sheets to the wind at the
time. Aurora always wondered if it would have been different had he been sober.
Would he be different if he was sober?
Finding herself always trying to make excuses for him. He was
violent no matter his blood-alcohol level.
Aurora loved adventures, mysteries, and romances. She loved
feeling like she was there, that it was her story.
Currently she was engulfed in a supernatural series about a
girl who finds herself wrapped up in the paranormal world. The main character
had witnessed a crime beyond human comprehension and is 
thrown into a world of vampires,
witches, and wolves. There was a new twist at every corner pulling her deeper
inside this world. The latest was the revelation that the main character was
not as human as she thought.
An hour or so passed before Aurora looked up again. She
decided best to grab a glass of water and check the time.
It had been a while since Jayme had been this late. As she
hit the kitchen she glanced to the stove, it read eight and the sun had set.
Thinking to herself she wondered what was keeping Jayme, it is not that he was
never late but it had been a long time since he was. The silence was unnerving
grabbing her water she headed back to the couch.
Aurora rested back into her book, she wanted to get in a
couple more chapters before she ate and cleaned up. Making sure to leave a
portion in the microwave for Jayme, he had woken her horribly the first time
she forgot. Ripping her young body from her bed, dragging her to the kitchen
and throwing her into the fridge. Yelling incessantly into her face, forcing
her to prepare his single serve plate and heat it in the microwave. After that
day she never forgot his plate again.
Completing for the night it was nine o'clock. After the
eeriness wore off Aurora realized she preferred days when Jayme was late, it
was so peaceful. She was never good enough and her father made sure to let her
know this everyday. For the most part it was verbal and mental attacks but he
beat her too when he saw fit, some becoming quite savage.
Jayme had not always been this man, not on the surface
anyways. When Aurora's mom left something cracked in him. Jayme never talks
about it, no pictures of her sat in that house. Aurora was only two years old
when she left, not even old enough to remember her name.
Aurora tidied up and headed in for a shower before bed,
five-thirty came early. Provided only
the basic shower necessities: bared soap, shampoo and conditioner in one, and a
cloth. As usual in the shower she pondered her future, her options, her
livelihood. Time passed quickly and she jumped out afresh but emotionally
drained.
Standing in front of the small bathroom mirror Aurora stared
over herself, losing herself, looking deep into her own soft blue eyes. Never
has she seen any resemblance to Jayme. The yearn to know who her mother was,
burned unmatched. What she may have looked like filled her as she looked to the
empty shell before her.
Her wet hair clinging to her body draping past her shoulder
blades to the small of her back, it was always wavy when wet and straight as a
pin when dry. Standing just over 5 feet 6 inches she was tall but held a
slender figure weighing in at or around 130 pounds. Her facial features soft
and angel like; not showing the years of torture and abuse. Aurora never thought
of herself as anything but to a mere bystander she held the body and features
of a model.
In her room she threw on her sleepwear. An oversized,
hand-me-down t-shirt and some sweats. Brushing through her hair with her broken
brush was frustrating. It was the glue that had given and the whole bristle
section kept popping out. Frustrated she almost found herself in tears,
questioning why.
As she was just finishing her nighttime braid, she heard the
commotion at the front door. Oh no she thought quietly. Worried Jayme had been
drinking and this was him stumbling in.
She quickly put her towel in front of the crack in her door.
Her hope was to cover the light from her room, she didn't want him to know she
was awake.
Listening intently to the hallway she heard he was not alone
either. Aurora could hear at least two other men. This left her shaken, it was
something new.
"AURORA!" Jayme bellowed through the house.
Aurora's heart rate went up, her stomach had flipped. First
of all, he could be drunk. Second, she could not remember the last time they
had guests. It had to be almost ten at night but she knew better than to keep
her father waiting or ignore him.
“Ohh AuRoRa!" Jayme sang out louder.
Aurora knew she needed to move and quickly, she jumped up
kicking the towel out of the way of the door. Opening the door in a flash
Aurora tore into the living room to a full house.
Her father Jayme stood in the living room and there were five
new faces. Two were seated on the couch and three standing.
"Ah Aurora, we have guest" Jayme said sternly at
his daughter.
Aurora could feel the men staring at her, the gazes hard and
searching. "Hello" she said sweetly not sure how to react.
The men on the couch were both old, they looked much older
than Jayme. They rocked grey hair, heavier builds, and suits. They reminded her
of what she always imagined grandparents looked like.
The three men standing all looked like security. Upon closer
inspection one could see that they were. Each held a pistol and another
holstered on their hip. Aurora didn’t take this in, her focus was like a
trapped rat worried about what was to come.
"Ahem" Jayme cleared his throat and Aurora realized
they would not reciprocate her greeting. She knew Jayme’s cough was an
indication to not forget her manners.
"Can I get you all a drink?" she asked out.
"Scotch" said one of the older men on the couch.
"Same" said the man beside him.
Aurora looked over to the three standing. “Water” said the tallest one, both
the others nodded. Making the mental list and knowing her father would take
scotch on the rocks she scurried out of the room.
In the kitchen she caught the time Ten-thirteen. Making quick
work of getting together everyone’s drinks. Entering with drinks on a platter
(usually used for cookies) she quietly brought around the drinks. Aurora could
hear the conversation die out the moment she entered, she wondered what peaked
this late home visit but knew better than to try and stay.
Their looks were pleased but still hard, sure these were not
good people to have around. One of the
standing men gave her a sympathetic look but maintained their barrier. Coming
to her father, she was nervous as he looked shaky, tense and extra angry.
Leaving the room again she wished she was allowed to know
what this was about because this looked bad to her and she was no real judge of
such matters.
Back in the kitchen Aurora was searching for appetisers for
the visitors. She swore she heard a deep voice say "Well trained she
is" a shiver ran down Aurora’s spine. Straining to hear more of the
conversation she tilted her head, but she was only catching mumbled words.
Aurora wondered if she heard correctly (she had) but she convinced herself
otherwise for safety.
Shaking it off she finished a cheese and cracker plate, a
couple bowls of nuts and chips quickly bringing it out. Placing it on the
coffee table she stepped back. Knowing better than to linger she turned on her
heels to head out of sight.
"Aurora, sit." Jayme demanded, cold and distantly.
Aurora was caught off guard but responded instantly. She
slipped into the armchair across from the couch. The room was awkward, the
silence deafening. The room stood still only for a moment, Aurora and the two
older men were now across from each other. Jayme off to their one side by the
kitchen, the three man to the other by the door. Aurora didn’t dare make eye
contact with anyone but could feel multiple pairs on her.
The Deal
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The chatter started back up and Aurora tried to keep
track and interest in what was being said. She really could not, the
conversation was dry and hard. It did not take long for it to catch her
interest again though.
“You see don’t you Kurt” Jayme said towards the older men. A
pleading in his voice called her.
"I do" he gave "this is far from enough "
he added deeply cracking his knuckles.
" you cost the family Jayme" the man beside him
threw in.
"You know how the family handles liabilities" the
one addressed by Kurt finished.
"I know" Jayme said bowing his head in submission.
"I won't allow anything like this again." He meets their eyes, stern
but begging.
Aurora couldn't help but wonder what was happening. She had
never seen her father show submission or fear. What had he got mixed into? What
family? He was always so hard, mean and intimidating. This made Aurora worried,
she was sure whatever this was it was worse than she imagined.
The man beside Kurt responded to Jayme after a moment of
ponder and a look to Kurt. "We know you won't Jayme, we'll make sure of
it. This is just the start of your punishment" his eyes flashed, and he
looked to Aurora. A shiver rang through her as her mind reeled, what was he
implying?
"The only reason you’re alive Jayme is you've worked
with us for twenty-five years. Been like family to us, we want to trust you
won’t screw us like that again." Kurt said his face dead of expression.
Aurora gasped unable to hide her shock. Her dad worked for
them for twenty-five years? That is her whole life plus some. Did her mother
know this? Is that why she's gone? Her mind was shaken back by a sharp smack to
the face. Catching her off guard she fell to the floor. Opening her eyes and
looking up to Jayme staring down at her, her eyes welled with tears, but she
blinked them away quickly knowing they would warrant more.
"I'm sorry sir" Aurora said through her cracking
voice. Quickly looking around she saw the men showing no real signs of emotion.
A wave of embarrassment crashed over her. Bowing her head, she knew better.
"I have no excuse for my outburst nor is there one"
she shields her hands like a box around her head not moving till she is told
what to do next.
"Sit and listen" Jayme barked, "not a sound
girl" he glared at her.
Aurora moved back to the chair. Putting together what she had
heard. Jayme worked for these shady people and somehow made them angry. Her
nerves were haywire, she just wanted to go to bed. Why did she have to be here?
"Sorry Kurt, Russel, she’s not totally guest
trained" Jayme looks to them apologetically. Like it was Aurora’s fault he
had to slap her.
"No apologies, Jayme, it is a quick fix. She’s house
trained most importantly" Russel spoke firmly, Kurt just nodded in
agreement.
Aurora heard the words but couldn't react. Why were they
talking about how "trained" she was? Sweat started building on her
hands and chest, her heart rate escalating. Aurora had to hold it down, she
took small steady breaths and focused as they talked. She needed more
information about what the hell was happening.
"Well if she wasn’t, she’d be useless" Jayme
cackled. Aurora couldn't believe this man was her father, he hated her. Having
wished she could hate him to the same degree, but it is the only parental
support she’s ever known.
She would try to run but there was nowhere to go, she had
thought about it often and even attempted a couple times. Lowering her head in
defeat she had succumb to this life.
"So, this is what is going to happen Jayme, we will take
your offer to spare you. You have tenure and will continue your loyalty to
us." Kurt said taking another sip of his scotch. "To watch you, Tony
here will be your new roommate" he halfway pointed to one of the three
standing men. The tall bulky one stepped forward.
Aurora thought to herself, great another person to care for
and pick up after. She was displeased but knew better than to show any signs of
said displeasure.
"One wrong move and you’re dead Jayme, you've become
like family to us yes - however we will not deal with another wrong move"
Kurt said roughly sliding his finger slowly across his neck to signal Jayme’s
death was the only way out.
"No worries boss, Tony will make a great roommate. I’ve
always got the Malone’s back, forever boss." Jayme was speaking firm, but
you could see his fear. The sweat gathering on his brow, a slight shake in his
leg. Dealing with these temperamental types was like walking on eggshells,
Aurora knew that.
Both Russel and Kurt nodded, proceeding to stand. Aurora
jumped up following suit, she didn’t want to get a slap for rudeness.
Jayme looked at her with remorse as she stood. Meeting his
gaze, she shielded her questioning emotions. Never has she seen this look in
his eyes. What didn’t she understand? To her that went well. No one is dead,
and they have a new roommate. If Jayme stayed out of trouble it would be fine.
"Aurora go pack a bag, quickly" Jayme order his
daughter.
Shocked she had to hide any emotion as much as possible.
Questions filled her head, none of this made sense. Quietly she made her way to
her room, feeling someone following. Aurora turned to see Tony, oh great an
escort she thought. Why did she need a bag what had she missed?
When she got into her room, she left the door ajar for Tony
to enter. She pulled out a haggard backpack to throw some clothes in. Not even
sure where she was going, might as well what she would need?
Thinking quickly, she doubled back and pulled the door too
making sure not to cause a click. Aurora was a little sneaky, not sure if I had
mentioned that. Years of abuse can do that to a kid.
Knowing she needed to find out more and this Tony person may
be able to help with that. Aurora hatched a plan.
Picking through her drawers, she knew she didn't have much
time. Looking up at Tony he was watching her intently, making sure she didn’t
try anything. This meant it was not a time to attempt running. Next best option
was talking.
"Do you know why I'm packing?" Aurora quietly asked
facing away from him.
There was no answer, so she jerked her head back seeing him
nodding ever so slightly.
"Are we going somewhere, Jayme and I?" Aurora asked
quietly into the air again.
Looking back, she awaited Tony’s response. Tony never looked
up but shook his head no.
Puzzled Aroura continued to put clothes into a pile on her
bed. A tiny backpack meant she did not have a ton of space. Not that she had a
lot of clothes or anything but without knowing what to pack she wished she had
a bit more space.
Going through what little she had. A realization hit her and
she froze. Tony had said Jayme and she were not going but she was packing so
she was definitely going somewhere. That meant it was her that leaving and Tony
was moving in.
“Where am I going?” Aurora threw the question out into the
silence, emphasizing the ‘I’.
“Can’t Say” a deep voice filled the air. Aurora looked to
him, his voice alarmingly honest.
It was than she knew she had exhausted this source of
information and she didn’t blame him. Tony had been so kind to her, giving her
what he did. Aurora rolled her larger clothing like pants and shirts, throwing
her undergarments into the bag first and stuffing the rolled pieces on top.
Aurora started zipping up her backpack as she looked around
the room. Not knowing when or if she would ever see it again, she became
sentimental. This room had nothing extra, Jayme provided her only the bare
necessities. Looking around again though this is all she had ever known. This
has been her room as far back as she remembers. Nothing had changed furniture
wise either, there was a single bed in the middle of the small room. A small
vanity was on the right side of the room and the dresser was on the left.
Shaking the emotional thoughts from her head she prepared to
leave, quickly noticing her hairbrush atop the dresser she tossed it in the
backpack zipping it up.
Aurora made her way to Tony looking up to him with a thankful
smile. He looked down to her his eyes pained, regret and sympathy all over
them. She had never had someone look onward to her like that, it was nice to
know that some people had souls.
They entered the hall and Aurora tried to find her breath.
Her chest felt heavy with anticipation. Not knowing was almost harder, she
couldn’t accept what she did not know about.
They came to the living room and the scene had not changed
much, Jayme still stood rigid and fearfully. The two men still standing in
front of the couch.
“Take her out to the car” Russel gestured to one of the men
remaining by the door.
The man didn’t talk but made a movement with his hand to
clarify understanding. Aurora had so many questions but knew it wouldn’t get
her any answers and a lot more bruises. She followed without hesitation or
looking up for that matter. No goodbye between her father and her. The man who
held that title didn’t even move from his seat.
Once they were out of the front door, the guard grabbed onto
her arm harshly.
“Faster slut” he barked lowly.
When they got to the black SUV sitting out front. He abruptly
stopped. Unprepared Aurora was stopped by the utter force of his counterweight.
Aurora looked around, this really had to be a dream. That was it she must have
fallen asleep; still at her desk and she’ll wake any moment. Pinching herself
in hopes of coming to. The man crossed his brows “What the fuck are you doing?
– Give me your bag” he barked.
Aurora did not care to explain what she was doing to this
asshole, she saw the signs already he was a loose cannon waiting to go off. A
force within her did not want to give up her bag though. This was her only
possession the only piece of her. Gripping the bag tighter worried about
loosing it Aurora did not she what was coming.
“I said give me the bag you piece of shit” he grabbed onto
the bag at the same time as placing a foot over hers and pushing immensely hard
on her chest. Shocking her system, she let go as she tumbled to the ground
hard. Snatching the bag, he stood over her. Anger and hate flowed off of him
which Aurora was used to but strange from someone other than Jayme.
Reaching down Aurora assumed he was going to help her back up
but his hand was going to her head. Her wrapped his hand tightly in the hair
near her scalp. Pulling her up so she was off the ground. Aurora whimpered and
quickly stumbled to fix her legs to support some weight. His face was so close
to hers, the darkness shrouding his features except the evil tint in his eyes.
“Don’t forget your place – I know once you’re on the menu
what I’ll order” he spat into her face. A devilish grin spreads across his face
at the end, licking his lips as he scanned her body with his eyes. He dropped
her back to the ground adding a kick, he was aiming for her stomach but her leg
protected it. Aurora clutched her leg as his boot came into contact.
“Get in” the harsh voice ordered as he opened the door.
Aurora complying made her way to her feet, she was not fast enough. Two large
hands grabbed her shirt and tossed her into the backseat of the SUV slamming
the door and turning around facing toward the house.
The Malone's
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As soon as Aurora had left the house, the room became
tense. Tony was still in the hallway to the rooms. The two men still in front
of the couch and another man remained at the front entrance. Russell broke the
silence with his hard but quiet voice. “Your daughter is but a mere part of
your repayment to the Malone family – You’re lucky you’re not paying with your
life” with that he nodded.
Without a word Tony and the other man surrounded Jayme, His
eyes harden as they came closer. He knew what this meant and spoke not a single
word in protest. The men started to beat him savagely, continuous hits to the
face. Jayme’s skin lasted multiple blows before it split open, but he didn’t
flinch or cower. He stayed on his feet till his body betrayed him and succumbed
to the beating.
Once on the floor the punching turned to kicking, the men
would keep going till the word of their boss. Kurt stepped up to Jayme’s almost
unconscious body holding up his hand. Thus, letting the men know to cease the
attack.
“Don’t mistake kindness for weakness Jayme – I’ll kill you”
he turned to leave but stopped. Turning back around he retracted his leg and
gave Jayme’s limp body another swift kick to the ribs “Aurora deserved better”.
He turned and left, reaching the door and without turning he called Shawn who
immediately headed out the door.
Outside Kurt and Russell headed to the backseat of the car
parked behind the black SUV. “Shane” Russell hollered as they approached the
car. The man who had been watching over Aurora headed to their car and got into
the drivers’ seat without further instruction. Shawn got into the SUV carrying
Aurora and looked into the rear-view mirror. Ocean eyes flashed up catching him
off guard. He quickly started the vehicle and followed the sleek black car Kurt
and Russel were in.
Tony looked down at his mentor Jayme, what he had seen
tonight had really changed his view. A lot of what Tony had strived for when he
started here was because of this waste laying on the floor. He knew Jayme had a
daughter but what he saw today was not what he expected. Jayme gurgled
something on the floor and Tony looked down at the lump on the floor in
disgust. He could not leave him there though. Leaning down and in a swift
motion he scooped up the poor excuse of a man and put him onto the couch.
The ride was silent and around three-quarters of an hour. It
had been years since she had been out in the community. Aurora was so young her
last trip out that she didn’t hold any conscious memories of the outside world.
All she knew was the five-acre lot. Everything was either darkness,
silhouettes, or overhead illumination. She was so fascinated with the view, she
stared out the window lost in the sights.
The lots became larger. The houses turned to mansions,
turning the SUV entered a gated property. The gate was a large black iron one
with the letters M-A-L on one side and O-N-E on the other. This was obviously
the Malone estate. The gate closed again after they were through. Aurora looked
around, the darkness shrouding her view. It looked to go on forever, the house
came into her view. It was jaw dropping, she never saw something so immaculate.
It was red brick and the largest building see ever saw. A dark front door and
black trimming accented the home.
The SUV stopped behind the other vehicle carrying Kurt and
Russell. Aurora did not want to move, she stayed seated awaiting direction.
Shawn left the vehicle and she was alone again. It didn’t last long though as
her door flew open.
There stood Russell arm outstretched “come on dear” his voice
rough but nice. Aurora slid across the seat and out the door. Taking his hand
as she exited afraid of the consequences if she didn’t. He led her to the
house. Following them was Kurt, behind him Shawn and Shane. As they got to the
door Kurt stopped them abruptly. Aurora’s heart speed up unsure of what was
about to happen, Kurt had swung her around, so she is facing him the speed of
which made her dizzy.
“Why are you all cut up and road burnt” he inquired his voice
harsh.
Aurora did not know what to say, she did not want to tattle
on Shane but she knew she needed to answer. Looking past him and at Shane, he
was staring daggers at her. Aurora was terrified, everything was hitting her so
fast and she didn’t know right from wrong here yet. She’d rather be with the
monster she knew than these ones she didn’t.
Kurt looked her over realising she would not talk, she looked
like a trapped animal. Absoloutly petrified. Kurt looked at the sweet girl that
stood before him shaking and for a second felt his humanity. His anger with
Jayme grew he could not imagine treating his daughter the way he witnessed
tonight. Not that he had one, but it made him think about the degenerates in
this line of business including himself.
He turned to Shawn and Shane his face hard and angry. Both
men were visibly shaken by the mans stare. Russell stood by watching aware of
the conclusion his brother had come to. Shane got rough with her while they
were dealing with Jayme.
“What is your job Shane?” Kurt changed his stance shifting so
he stood square to Shane. A commanding and shattering edge to his voice.
“Follow orders” he answered smartly and quickly, he was
shifting in place. Not daring to look anywhere but Kurt.
“Who gave you orders to rough her up?” Kurt pointed to
Aurora. She heated up not liking this confrontation, especially at her expense.
Backing up away from them she felt the cold door against her back, stopping her
retreat.
“She wouldn’t hand over her bag, I taught her a lesson like
any of the other girls” Shane responded submissively, head bowed. Aurora’s head
popped up curious what had he meant ‘other girls’, that did not sound promising
for her future.
“Does she look like other girls Shane” Kurt backhanded him
hard. The sound echoing into the air. Aurora shivered in response to it. “Until
Russell or I speak you don’t act, you know better. This is your only warning
down to the gate with you and send Cody up.” Kurt was visibly angry, one of his
men had been rough with her without cause. He’d have to investigate Shane’s
work record and make sure he wasn’t stepping out of bounds with the others too.
Shane who looked like a disciplined child headed down the driveway and out of
sight presumable to the gatehouse.
“Sorry about that dear, lets continue” Kurt turned to Aurora
who was still backed against the door. “As long as you follow the rules it will
be fine, you’re good at rule following right love? he asked. Still overcome
with everything Aurora just nodded.
Inside was even larger than it would seem, Auroras eyes
fluttered about taking in all the beauty of the foyer. It had a grand staircase
going up splitting off into two staircases to the left and the right. There was
a balcony across upstairs, allowing an open concept between the main and top
floor.
“We don’t want to overload you Aurora, we will talk tomorrow
at breakfast. Shawn will show you to your room, you’re expected to clean up and
bathe than go to sleep. Your door will be locked tonight but we will provide
you water.” Russell firmly spoke, he burrowed his stare deep into her. Not ever
had she been looked at like this before. There was a hunger in his eyes, a
darkness as he swept his eyes up and down her body.
Aurora nodded, a soft “yes” coming hoarsely from her mouth.
Then she looked over to Shawn to lead the way. Unexpectedly to her he headed
for the grand stairs. She never imagined her room would be up there.
As she began her ascent Kurt’s voice rang out behind her
“Breakfast is seven sharp”. Stopping and looking back she nodded and mustered a
smile without real emotion.
Shawn led her up the staircase and down the middle hallway.
Aurora gawked at the art and photos on the walls. The architecture was amazing,
the designer mixed it into the look so well. Shawn stopped outside the second
door on the right.
“Here you are ma’am – I will be locking you in but I’ll be
stationed here till morning”. Adverting her gaze from his peering eyes.
Aurora opened the door not sure if that confession made her
feel any better about the circumstances. The room was giant, she could not
imagine having this much space. Guessing four times her actual rooms’ size.
There were two doors in the room on the right side, she opened the first one to
find a closet the size of a large bathroom. Knowing she’d never use it she shut
that door again.
The next one was the bathroom, she walked in and looked
around. It was stocked and ready for use, shocked at how well supplied it was.
This was stuff she never got at home but had wished for. There was bath salts,
fancy soaps, shampoos, and conditioner. For a split second, she felt excited
but that was overcome by grief and the unknown.
Aurora did as she was told and cleaned up, bathed, and went
to bed. As she lay there, she thought over the day, wondering how late it must
be. The first time she got ready for bed was hours ago. It hit her like a train
how tired she was. Letting it wash over her she gave in and let her mind go.
Nothing more could be done till tomorrow anyways.
Breakfast
|
|
Aurora awoke to the sun in her eyes, she knew it was
early sun by the shade of yellowish orange illuminating outside. Remembering
the last time, she slept in she jumped awake wondering why Jayme hadn’t woken
her with his fist. The memory of last night flooded her mind and she looked
around the room, acclimatizing.
There was no clock in this room, but she’d guess it was
around six-fifteen or so. Aurora got up and headed for the washroom, she washed
her face and brushed her teeth. Grabbing her backpack, she picked an outfit and
got dressed. Nothing special just her usual jeans and a t-shirt.
Aurora stepped towards the door, nervous and anxious. Reached
out to grab the handle. Once she had done that, she took a jagged breath.
Turning the handle and pulling the door towards her. She was hoping it was no
longer locked, success it glided open showing Shawn standing at attention.
“Hello” Aurora said politely and quietly bowing her head.
“Good morning Ma’am” Shawn gave back a chipper greeting.
“Do you have the time by any chance?” Aurora spoke still
looking down. Knowing better than ask questions but she needed the time.
Instead of a lecture Shawn simply just told her the time,
“six-thirty Ma’am” his voice soft contrary to his hard stance.
“Should I go to the kitchen?” Aurora asked unsure what she
could do, being she was so used to her schedule. It felt like she was out of
her element this morning. “I don’t know what I can or should do is all” she
added honestly.
Shawn smiled for a second before retaining his stern look.
“Your expected in the dining hall for seven” is all he said though.
Aurora pondered his comment, she wanted to answer wisely. If
he said it that way maybe it meant she could do something beforehand. “Am I
allowed a tour?’ she finally got out still unsure and her voice showing it.
“Yes, I can take you about until breakfast” he nodded his
head forward directing her to follow him. He took off down the stairs “There is
nothing to see up there”.
Once on the main floor he pointed from room to room. Aurora
was amazed, it was huge and well equipped. Not that she’d know this was the
first house outside her own she had been too.
Shawn would comment here and there giving her the real tour
feel and she would nod along. Leading her outside she lit up truly getting to
see the gardens and acreage. Aurora took deep breaths walking about, she always
found the garden freeing. She walked from bed to bed of flowers, they were
arranged with such precise care.
Wondering about she could feel eyes on her but didn’t bother to look up,
she just kept drifting farther taking in the beautiful mixture of colours.
“Ma’am ten to seven” Shawn gave a gentle warning.
“Okay” Aurora answered without faltering surprising both
Shawn and herself. Shawn led the way back to the house and towards the dining
room. “Could you show me a restroom?” Aurora asked as they hit the kitchen
entrance.
He pointed to the door to the left, great timing Aurora
thought to herself as she opened the door. It was just a toilet and sink but
could host a shower and a tub too. Just wanting to wash her hands but decided
best to try as not to be rude during breakfast.
Joining Shawn again she followed him into the dining room, it
is a grand room with a huge oak table and ten chairs. There are four settings
placed, Aurora wondered if Shawn would be eating with them too. Shawn pulled a
chair out and Aurora sat, pushing her in he stood against the wall behind her.
On que Kurt entered with a beautiful woman behind him, she was much older than
Aurora but looked to be at least a decade younger than Kurt.
They took their places at the table, the woman sitting to
Aurora’s right and Kurt sitting across from the woman. “Good morning Aurora I
hope you slept well – this is my wife Eliza” he gestured to the woman beside
Aurora.
“Very nice to met you” Aurora turned to the Eliza trying to
be polite and remember her manners.
“A pleasure” Eliza returned, her face showing kindness and
remorse.
“My brother will be along shortly; he has to come from his
home” Kurt explained cutting the dead air that lingers among the three. What
was there to say, the situation was deplorable.
How does one bring up the buy and sell of human beings? Kurt had thought
about it most the night, how did he explain to this girl what had happened to
her or what was going to happen? She was a mere possession to her father and to
save his own skin he offered her up. Now she was property of Malone family,
this wasn’t necessarily a good thing either.
Eliza reached out grabbing Auroras hand, “How are you truly?”
she asked below a whisper. Aurora met her gaze but couldn’t respond. Eliza
looked trusting enough but she couldn’t find her words, Aurora dropped her head
instead. “it’s okay, you’ve been through a lot and its not nearly over” she
gave Aurora’s hand a couple taps before taking her own hand back.
Eliza had soft features; she was uniquely beautiful. Wrinkles
had started deepening on her face but they looked like smile lines. Dark brown
hair was tied in a tight bun at the nape of her neck, her eyes a golden brown.
Friendly and warm.
Russell entered the room, out of nature Aurora stood and
curtsied. He acknowledged this with a nod and sat in front of her. He finished
his greetings and the staff appeared around them like clockwork. All the
flavours and smells filling Aurora’s nose were mouth-watering, Mmm she thought
realizing just how hungry she was. It had been years since she had tasted
someone else’s cooking. Excited Aurora waited as the staff made their rounds.
The staff poured coffee and orange juice for everyone at the
table, they put eggs, bacon, and fruit on everyone’s plate. Lastly, they
brought toast to each person, it looked like each person had a different type.
Aurora waited for someone to start first; she was never allowed
to start before Jayme. It didn’t take long for everyone to start eating. It was
a calm pace; Aurora didn’t want to rush. About halfway through the meal Russell
spoke.
“Aurora, I imagine you’re confused this morning?” he asked
out. Kurt looked to Russell; he always had a way with words. The he could sell
a pen to a blind person kind of charisma. Hopefully, he could drive this as
Kurt still did not look forward to it. They have dealt with this kind of thing
for years now and Kurt still didn’t have the stomach for it.
Aurora nodded shyly adding “I have no idea what is going on;
except, Jayme messed up bad and has worked for you for a long time” her voice
low and trembling, Eliza could barely hear her.
“You call your dad, Jayme?” Eliza said before catching
herself and sending Aurora a sad smile. “Please speak up we won’t bite” she
added playfully.
Aurora just nodded. Truthfully, she was living in a state of
fear. At least she had known what was to come at home for the most part. This
was unknown and looming over her more and more the realer it became.
“Aurora, I’m going to be blunt wit
h you.” Russell’s voice sent a shiver down her spine. Aurora
could feel the growing knot in her stomach. “Jayme fucked up bad, to recover he
gave us you and has been put on tight watch, one goof and he’s dead.
Brutal but true love”. Taking a short breath, he finished with “we own you, you
are our property from here on out”.
When Russell was done talking, he relaxed back giving Aurora
a moment to process. Aurora was dumb founded; she didn’t really know what she
thought was happening but it certainly was not this. She assumed it would just
be till her father smartened up, like collateral but thinking about it now she
saw that would never work as he didn’t care about her anyways.
Kurt had a solemn look on his face, waiting to hear how
Aurora would take it. He was glad his brother took the reins on it, like
ripping off a band-aid he agreed fast and quick was the best way they could
have done it. His wife, Eliza was looking down at her plate slowly picking
away, she could not stomach it to see Aurora’s face when she realized she was
no more than mere property. Eliza knew this trade; she came from it her heart
broke for Aurora specifically, at least her own father had loved her.
Aurora raised her head after a moment of thought. She knew
based on what he said there wasn’t anything she could do or say. Her father had
owned her, this was true he restricted her from the outside world, no family,
no friends, homeschooled and zero trips outside the yard. He had complete
control of her and kept her to his schedules, no internet or phones but they
did have a TV.
There was no escape it felt, not from there and not from
here. She was doomed to slave away the rest of her life, she started to wonder
and imagine what kind of schedule she’d have now. Tears peaked her eyes and she
blinked them back but the others caught it no matter. Her eyes burning and her
head spinning she tried to find her grounding, she could do this, it couldn’t
be harder than it was already; could it?
“Understood” Aurora said in the strongest voice she could
muster; it broke halfway through giving away any charade of strength it had
gave. She bowed her head back down unaware how to respond or what to do. She
felt silly thinking she would merely be a guest till Jayme got his loyalty
back, how could he do this to her? Aurora knew her father hated her but to do
this without a word was deplorable even for him, she was angry with his
cowardice.
“I’m not sure you do” both Russell and Kurt’s voices came
almost in unison.
Eliza
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|
Aurora looked up puzzled but would not speak out of
fear. This was all so much new stuff; she was tired and worn already. It wasn’t
even 8am, but so much of this warranted heavy discipline at home. She was in a state
of high alert, her body and brain working overtime not to mention processing
the matter of her ownership.
Eliza reached out and grabbed onto Aurora hand giving it a
squeeze, she truly did not know why they seemed so nice. Aurora jumped
instinctively, a caged animal, cornered no where to run. “Sorry” she cast her
eyes down. They were people owners; she couldn’t figure out who was worse them
or Jayme. It was hard when they were treating her so warm heartedly though to
see the evil.
“We can do anything we want to you, we can give you to anyone
we want” Russell added, Kurt nodding but not speaking.
“Not like I have a choice or another option, is it” Aurora
said dead honestly. Soberly remembering how demented these people are.
Eliza coughed, choking on her coffee. All three staring at
Aurora who just shrugged and bowed her head again. Kurt rubbed his chin with
his finger and thumb as though a thought occurred to him. Looking over to his
wife and back to Russell he could see they were enamoured by her too.
“No choice but we need you to understand Aurora, no matter
the task be it my lunch or to fuck you – the Malones own you.” Russell added to
the air. He rolled the word ‘fuck” out of his mouth, almost spat at the ‘own
you’ part. Aurora shivered but remained almost unfazed on the surface. Her mind
reeling, she was shocked, sick, terrified. What did this mean ‘fuck you” she
thought whatever it was she did not like the sound of it.
“Aurora, your excused. We will see you at lunch.” Kurt said
without looking at her, staring at his wife he waved his hand signaling Shawn
to hurry the removal.
Without hesitation Aurora stood to leave, turning back only
to bend her knees and thank them all for breakfast. Turning back around she
followed Shawn out gracefully, wanting to get to that room and cry away her
problems and fears. As soon as she left the room the chatter picked back up.
“We need to discuss our plan for her?” Kurt said
“Agreed, too precious to waste” Russell chirped in a devilish
grin spreading across his face.
“Who? I want her safe or as safe as can be expected” Eliza
leaned in speaking firm.
“I volunteer” Russel said with a haughty laugh
“I’m not deciding yet, but the sooner the better or I’ll want
to put her to work here” Kurt said.
In the room Aurora slinked into the bed sobbing loudly into
the pillow. She tried to stay quiet but it kept coming harder like waves
crashing ashore. Shawn could hear her through the door and held his composure,
he’d heard everything from breakfast plus he knew the business. A part of him
felt for her, she seemed different from all the other girls. An innocence he
couldn’t explain, Jayme obviously treated her like a slave, like the others but
he saw something in her.
After what felt like forever, she crawled off the bed and
into the bathroom to clean up. She decided on a bath a full body relax before
whatever came next. Pouring in the bath salts she was excited to try them, she
had saw them on commercials like razors and girly soaps but Jayme would never
buy such an item. Sinking into the warm water she absorbed the bath and its
restorative ability.
When she was making her way out after forty-five minutes, she
concluded it was not just for the body but the mind and soul, she felt more at
ease if only for moment.
Life had never been on her side; she had always got the short
end of the stick but she persevered and there was no way she way going to break
now. During her bath her mind had wondered to the scenarios she could see
playing out, there were hundreds. All worse than the last and at her demise but
she had the strength to take abuse from her father everyday of her remembering
life she could survive this.
At least she prayed she could, which was new for her too
given the lack of miracles or love in her life she found it hard to believe in
a god but here and now she hoped that it could help. All the unanswered prayers
she made as a child would be forgiven if they would be answered now.
Dressing Aurora paced around the room unsure what to do. From
the bathroom across the four-pole white linen bed to the desk and vanity on the
other side and back again. The room was huge, she was still in amazement at the
fact they made them this big. It went with the house she guessed never seeing
something so gigantic in her life.
Finally, she stopped dead in the room facing the door heading
out, staring at it with her full force. The unknown is what killed, she has
never experienced that as far back as she remembers. Every day planned, tasks
to complete things to get done.
Taking a large staggering breath, she made her approach to
the door opening it to Shawn’s waiting shadow.
“Hello Ma’am” Shawn familiar voice filled the air as he came
into view.
“Hello, when am I required next? What should I do?” Aurora
throws questions
Shawn smiles down to her, adoring her loving aura and
blissful nature. “Lunch is still an hour from now” he says calmly into the
space between them, “You’re not required to do anything” he adds at the end.
Aurora taken aback, physically she leans on the door for a
bit of support. She can not sit around she never has been able too and not for
the obvious reason. No matter if it is work, a book or gardening she needed
something.
“What can I do?” she questions wisely.
A smirk riddles Shawn’s face, “You have pretty open rein –
not many get the same VIP access”
Aurora mulled the words over, free rein? Had she not just
been told she was owned? Aurora was going through so many changes in such a
sort amount of time, could this be real.
“Can I go to the Library we passed this morning?” Aurora
voice was low and shaky, even though he said she could she didn’t trust it.
“Yes, of course. Follow me” Shawn headed down the grand front
stairs again. Heading through the same hallway from this morning. It has
gigantic rooms off both sides, some have doors and some are open frame
entrances. Aurora has little idea how deep they end up; this house is large and
quite confusing.
Shawn finally stops, swaying a hand from his side to escort
her threw the door. Aurora marvels around the room, her heart fluttering in her
chest. She had never seen so many books in one room. The ambient light in the
room came mostly from the fire, there were windows floor to ceiling but the
drapes hanging in front blocked every ounce of brightness.
There was a lovely sitting area set in front of the fire, the
chairs big, red and comfy looking. The red contrasted the deep brown of the
walls so well. Looking beside the fireplace a spindle staircase rose to a
second floor. Looking back to the rows and rows of books on the first floor she
caved to curiosity and began to climb the stairs.
“Ahem” A cough behind her startled her into a crouching
position, she assumed she crossed a line and the beating came next. A hand came
down onto her shoulder, firm but not painful. No hitting came just the pressure
of the large hand. Aurora’s peeled her head up, emotionally and physically
drained. Shocked Aurora’s eyes widen and her posture automatically adjusted to
upright.
“Come” Kurt looks grimly down at her, as if assessing or angry.
Aurora scampered to her feet unable to find her them fast
enough. Kurt was already leaving the room giving Shawn a sharp look on the way
out. Keeping his head fixed to the ground Shawn followed Aurora and Kurt out of
the room. He wasn’t going to let her go up the ladder, he knew the boundary.
That was for the Malones only, private library. It was simply wrong place,
wrong time.
Kurt rounded the halls quickly, Aurora found it hard to match
his pace which seemed odd given his age maybe he was super pissed. Aurora
faltered inside, moving forward with a numb paralysis of fear. What would
her punishment be like? Would he hurt her bad to teach her the rules? Her mind
kept spiraling deeper, hands starting to sweat, her breath and heart
staggering. Each step they take bouncing through her, rattling the fear deep
inside her.
Kurt swiftly turned into a room near the grand stairway,
Aurora almost missed it but Shawn helped steer her in seamlessly. Scanning the
room it is a sitting room, a old fashion den not a tv in sight. The couches not
something Aurora had seen before but to a lay eye they were vintage, well
maintained still in their prime.
Eliza is already sitting on one of the two couches; she has a
tea tray set out in front of her and gestures a nod as to ask if Aurora would
like a cup. Sitting in one of the two matching armchairs Aurora manages a nod
followed by a quick “yes, please – thankyou”.
Shawn takes his place as Auroras’ living shadow and Kurt
walks to a gold cart in the corner. As he pours himself a stiff drink Eliza
slides a fragile teacup toward Aurora. Shaking she cradles the cup in two hands
brings it to her mouth. Blowing carefully on the steaming cup she takes a quick
sip; it burns her tongue so she quickly returns it to the table. In the corner
Kurt refills his glass letting out an exhausted sigh. Bringing his hand up he
smooths it through his hair, contemplating something dire. His eyes dark and
casted over.
Eliza taps the open spot next to her, Kurt sulks over.
Throwing back what sat in the glass, closing his eyes he sits. When he reopens
them a new set of determination lay in his eyes as he takes in the girl who sat
before them.
“Aurora, something has changed since this morning” Kurt’s
voice seemed angry and cold. Everything in her tightened, her assumption, her
good for nothing father could not go 24-hours without fucking up. Aurora looked
up saying nothing but fearing the worst, he’s dead and she’s next.
“I did not expect nor see this coming. My brother wishes to
claim you not for the Malone family but for himself” his tone downright flat.
Aurora’s jaw fell open, this was not what she saw coming but almost seemed
worse. Swallowing with anticipation she waited for Kurt to continue.
“Eliza and I don’t wish to see that” Kurt is looking towards
his wife for support.
“I knew your mom” Eliza voice is soft, her face full of
sadness. “You look just like her” she whispers her eyes wet, lined with
emotion. “I didn’t know it was so bad Aurora” The last sentence she almost sobs
out, regret is displayed all over her.
Aurora can’t hide her shock, her questions. Gasping she
catches herself by nature clasping her mouth. Looking to her feet she thinks
about what Eliza just said, she could tell her about her mother. Aurora’s gaze
flashes back up hope displayed all over her, questions piling up at an
invisible dam.
“Denying my brother of you could easily start a family war”
Kurt’s sobering words slice threw her.
Eliza and Aurora both looking back to him the realness
sitting in the room. Aurora looked back to Shawn, even if these people where
confessing care she had a spark of trust in him and none in them. Anger
sprawled on his face until he caught her glance, he looked at her as if reading
her request, he nodded providing her the lifeline she needed in this crazy
head-spin of a morning.
Aurora fixated her gaze forward again “I don’t want to be
Russell’s” her voice is small and laced with the uncertainty she feels. “I want
to know about my mom, please” her gaze turns to Eliza begging for anything. The
look in Eliza eyes is heartbreak but Aurora doesn’t know what to make of it.
“I will my dear girl, I promise, in time. Russell will be
here for lunch – Not too long from now” Eliza voice is strong but filled with
emotion that can be heard.
“We need to act as if nothing has changed, the longer we can
hold him at bay without the war the better” Kurt’s voice is crisp but almost
friendly.
Aurora nods, bowing her head. Why did it seem like this was a
rescue attempt? Felt like being given a door that is just inches to small to
escape through. Tears formed in her eyes, emotions threatening at her core.
“Clean up and met us for lunch – He’ll be here momentarily”
Kurt’s voice is urgent
As Aurora stands to leave a voice pulls her back “Put on a
show Aurora, we will all have to” Eliza eyes are pleading.
Walking back to her room both Shawn and Aurora were shrouded
in . As they came to the door, he looked
down on her with worried eyes. She grabbed the handle turning back to look up
at him “Thank you” she said. Disarming him she walked in the room quietly
shutting the door.
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