Chapter 233: Hunters, Part 16

James

Shoving a couple of coins into the slot, I pocket my goods and return to find her sitting up, hugging her knees. The bed is large and her face unusually pale even for her. She looks lost, childlike, and not for the first time I reflect on the age difference between us.

Pulling the packet from my pocket, I wave it quickly by her for reassurance before placing it on the bedside table. “There are vending machines in the public bathrooms downstairs,” I explain.

She nods, but I see the movement of her throat as she swallows. Cupping her cheek in my hand, “You are alright?”

She raises a wan smile. “Yes, Master. I’m alright, just very tired. You don’t have to keep asking.”

I pull the sheets back. Without meaning to, my gaze slides over her body, bruised and battered. Her skin, usually so pale and perfect is blotchy with brutal hues and half-healed welts. My gorge rising, I look away.