Honeypot (WAYHAUGHT)

Chapter 17 - Eternity

Nicole couldn't stay in hospital. She would never forgive herself. She edged herself off the bed, still dizzy. She had to get to the office. Had to find out where Waverly was. Jeremy would help.

She needed to get to Waverly.

She dressed herself. Every action an effort. The throbbing in her head making each movement more difficult. Focus Nicole, she muttered to herself, you can do this. She made her way out of the ward, bright lights along a corridor, heading towards an exit sign. She stood in the street, cars passing, lights hurting her eyes. You can do this, you can do this, she repeated, staggering towards a taxi rank outside the hospital.

She got in a waiting taxi, giving him the address of her office. The movement of the vehicle making her feel sick. Hold on, you can do this, she reassured herself. The taxi pulled up outside the building. Thankfully, she still had her wallet in her jacket. Dragging herself into the building, she reached her desk. She felt sick, the room was spinning. She just needed to steady herself.

She could see Jeremy.

Nicole's entry startled him. He was busy on his computer. He looked her. She was in a bad way. He rushed to help.

"Nicole. You look awful. Here, sit. Dolls said you needed to stay in hospital."

"Jeremy I need to get to Waverly. Where is she?"

"She's in north London. My gut says the Serpent has her. Her phone has been in the same place for some time. Armed units are on their way to the address now. Nicole, seriously you need to go back to hospital."

"Jeremy, give me the address. I have to go to her."

"Nicole, this isn't something you can handle. I know you rank above me, but I can't let you get involved."

Nicole had tears in her eyes. It was the first time Jeremy had seen her emotional. He didn't know what to do.

"Can I get you a coffee?"

"Jeremy, get me Waverly."

That's all he needed to hear. "Nicole, if it's the last thing I do, I'll save her."

Nicole knew what she needed to do. She logged on. Just one more piece of code. That's all. One more piece. The screen was moving in front of her eyes. A ringing in her ears. Cotton wool around her thoughts. Everything foggy. She had to do this. For Waverly. She couldn't lose her.

She was in. She couldn't mess this up.

Waverly felt her phone vibrate in her back pocket. She had forgotten she had it on her. Whoever was sending her a message, she needed to read it. She looked at Gardner.

"Do you have a bathroom?"

He stared at her. She was sassy. Beautiful. His type. She was his captive. He could do what he liked with her. He had several things in mind already. He could always dispose of her later if he grew bored. For now, he would enjoy his prize. Even if she had caused him to alter his plans.

"I'll show you."

He took her hand, feeling her go tense. He liked that. He wanted her to be scared of him. To feel powerless. Unable to resist. He led her to a door along the hall, leading her in. Waverly stood watching him. She hadn't anticipated Gardner staying in the bathroom with her.

"I need some privacy, if you don't mind."

"I want to watch."

"And, that's a no."

"I like your spirit. Makes this all the more delicious. I'll give you this one. Only one. After this, you'll do exactly as I say. I never want to hear the word 'no' from you again."