Welcome to My Cage

OWNED BY THE RUTHLESS KING

Chapter 5

I never tried to escape again.

Not because I don't like it but because I seem to know that the ending will be right away. Even if I can get out of this mansion, it doesn't mean that I am safe. It seems like no matter where I go, someone is still going to chase the⸙kin—and I don't know which one is scarier.

I just sat on the edge of the bed, silent, while staring out the window. I don't know what time it is, but it looks like morning. The light coming in was dim, but that wasn't enough to make me feel better. It seems that even though it's bright outside, it's still dark inside of me.

I was holding my arm where Dante held me last night. It still hurts. But what he said hurt even more.

You're already sold.

Over and over again in my mind.

I don't seem to want to be silenced.

I close my eyes tightly, but I can't hold back the tears. It just dripped silently, as if I was used to crying without a sound.

I'm tired.

I'm tired of pretending that I can still do it.

Suddenly the door opened, and I looked up immediately. A woman came in—fairly old, looking nice, and carrying a tray of food.

“Good morning, daughter” she said, her voice calm.

I didn't answer right away. I just stared at him, not sure if I should trust it.

“I put your food here,” he added as he set the tray on the table. I was there last night, and you didn't even touch it.

“I’m not hungry,” I answered softly.

He sighed. You can't last long like that.

I didn't answer anymore. I don't feel like it, no matter how hard I try.

What's your name? he asked, more gently.

Ariana.

She smiled a little. Rosa is mine. I'm working here. Thanks

I just nodded, but still couldn't shake my doubt. I don't know who here I can trust. I don't know if I have an ally.

“Be careful,” she said before leaving. Not everyone here is kind.

I looked at her, but she said no more. He had gone out and closed the door.

Quiet again.

But it's not the same as before.

It's like he left a weight on my chest.

Not everyone here is nice.

I don't need a reminder.

I know that it's a joke.

On the other side of the mansion, Dante stands inside his office, silently reading through the papers in front of him. There was no emotion on his face, but he clearly meant what he was doing.

“Report,” he said coldly.

Marcus was standing in front of her, posture straight. Her name is Ariana Valez. Seventeen. Student. No criminal record.

He didn't answer. Just listening.

⸰Lives with her stepfather. Carlos Valez, Marcus added.

Dante's expression changed slightly, but it wasn't obvious what he was thinking.

Background? he asked.

Gambler. Lots of debt. There are connections to illegal activity, Marcus replied. And the girl is very beautiful

He paused for a moment.

Continue.

There have been reports of domestic disturbance. Possible abuse.

Quiet.

The surroundings are getting heavier.

It was as if something had developed in Dante's mind.

Leave, he ordered.

Marcus left immediately, leaving her alone inside the office.

He looked out the window, but it wasn't clear what he was thinking.

Meanwhile, I sit on the floor, leaning against the bed, hugging myself. I couldn't stop it—I was crying again. It's quiet, but I can feel the pain with every breath.

I don't know why I'm here.

I don't know why I still am.

Suddenly, the door opened again.

I took a quick look.

And that's where I found him.

Dante.

He did not speak immediately. He just walked in, quietly, but you could feel the weight of his presence immediately.

I was sitting pretty well, not knowing what to do.

2Look at me.

I slowly looked up at him. I couldn't avoid his gaze.

You live with your stepfather, he said, bluntly.

My eyes widened. How do you...