Amaranthine

Chapter 16

Katelina sat in the backseat of Oren's car, terrified eyes on the mansion and the secrets it held; secrets that tasted like blood in her imagination.

Her blood.

Jorick stood next to the car, expectant eyes on her, waiting for her to climb out. When she didn't move, he opened the back door and stuck his head inside. "Are you all right?"

She shook her head repeatedly and tried to keep the fear from her voice. "I want to go home. I want to go home now."

"Shhhhhh.... it's all right." He smiled tightly but reassuringly and laid his hand on her shoulder. "Let's go inside and you can get a bath and some fresh clothes."

"I can take a bath at home. Where it's safe."

Jorick looked at her, seemingly confused. Then he seemed to understand the effect the scene at the motel room had had on her.