One Week

ARYA’S POV The car ride back was silent except for Dante's soft breathing. I kept my head down, my body language was defeated. It wasn't hard to fake. I was defeated and trapped. But beneath the fear, a plan was forming. Marco wanted docile? I would give him docile. I would be so compliant and sweet that he would stop watching me so closely. And then… when he let his guard down for just a moment, I would find a way out. I had to. For Dante’s sake. "I'm sorry," I said quietly as we pulled into the parking garage. Marco glanced at me in the rearview mirror. "What?" "For almost… for what I almost did at the hospital." The words tasted like ash, but I forced them out. "You're right. You've been taking care of us. I shouldn't have and I'm sorry." He was silent for a moment, possibly surprised. "I know you are." His voice was softer. "I know you're just scared and confused. But you'll understand eventually. This is all for your own good." I nodded, keeping my eyes downcast. We parked and