44. Chapter 44

Chapter 44

-Jared-

"Are you absolutely certain?" I queried, my voice carrying a hint of doubt.

"We arrived here weeks ago," Alison gently reminded me. "It's been peaceful, and I've cherished every moment of it. But we can't ignore the looming threat overhead. If we ever hope to build a life together, we must confront this."

"I'm not entirely sure he will react," I confessed, a sense of uncertainty creeping into my words.

"No, I understand. But it's imperative that we address this now," she asserted firmly, her determination unwavering. I found myself nodding in agreement. The waiting had grown wearisome, despite the comfort we had found in this secluded haven.

"Very well," I acquiesced, swiftly tapping away on my phone. I sent a photo and a message to Vince, then proceeded to send him an email. "He may have severed all ties, but I've enlisted Astrid's help to guide him back to us."

Alison nodded in acknowledgment. Yet, as we sat together in Vince's former office, her posture betrayed her inner turmoil. She sank deeper into her seat, hands folded in front of her, the glimmering ring catching the light. It adorned her finger like a crown jewel, a beautiful sight I seldom allowed her to remove, treating it akin to a collar.

I had a more discreet version fashioned for her neck, resembling a delicate silver necklace, but it could not be unlocked. While I indulged her with different collars during our intimate play, that one symbolized a definite claim.

"I just want this to be over with," she whispered, and I nodded in understanding.

"Me too."

A silence descended upon us as we both contemplated the weight of our situation. Surrendering ourselves fully to the enigma of our attraction to each other had brought about a sense of tranquility. Each day was imbued with a sense of pure bliss, a sensation I had never before experienced in my entire life.

Alison brought me that sense of completeness. Who would have imagined? But she was right. Our lives couldn't truly begin while Vince loomed over us like a haunting shadow. Though I didn't relish the thought of his demise, it was a necessary conclusion. My allegiance had shifted, and I chose Alison.

She began twirling the ring on her finger, a silent indication of her fears and the other matters she wished to address once Vince was dealt with.

"If he doesn't show," I broached the uncomfortable possibility.

"Let's not entertain that thought," she interjected firmly.

"Alison, we need a plan," I pressed.

"Very well. If he fails to appear, we stay here. We make our lives in this place and find happiness together," she declared, her words devoid of emotion.

"Is that truly what you want?" I inquired, searching her gaze.

She glanced around before meeting my eyes. "I've grown fond of this place."

"I have too, but I thought you wanted to escape, to leave it all behind," I reminded her.

"Perhaps running won't solve anything. Maybe we're meant to be right here, to do things differently this time," she mused.

I smiled faintly, relishing her suggestion. This place felt secure, especially now that I'd distanced myself from Astrid's affairs and severed my ties with Vince.

"I'm drawn to the idea," I confessed.

Alison's smile mirrored mine, and we gazed into each other's eyes, reveling in the serenity surrounding us. With Alison's presence, this place took on a new warmth, her love permeating every corner and reaching into my soul. It dispelled the darkness, the pain, and I anticipated the rest of our lives with the same tranquility.

"I'm hungry. Fancy something to eat?" she offered.

I nodded, though I remained seated, needing a moment to collect my thoughts. She understood, gracefully accepting my silent request for contemplation as she set off to prepare a meal for us. Despite her unfamiliarity with my world, she had made remarkable progress in her recovery, even if the shadows of her nightmares still lingered. She avoided discussing the details of her kidnapped, and I respected her silence, redirecting our focus to the most potent remedy—our physical union. The thought brought a smile to my lips as I stood to pour myself a drink before glancing at the desk.

How many times had I sat in that very spot with Vince, not just receiving orders, but reveling in camaraderie? He had been the first person I allowed past my defenses, the only adult to acknowledge my pain. Now, I was tasked with his demise, a burden that weighed heavily upon me.

Gazing out at the front of the house, I noticed the sun dipping low in the sky. If Vince chose to stay in hiding, I would reciprocate, but I knew him too well. Control was his weakness, his inability to accept circumstances beyond his dominion his downfall.

"I'll be seeing you soon," I murmured, setting my glass down after a quick sip and exiting the room.