The Dangerous Storm

Ten

Erin's breathing grew heavier as she opened her eyes slowly, feeling shivers running down her bare back. Uncertain whether Yates had turned off the heat or if the room was just cold, the brunette surveyed her surroundings once fully awake.

Noticing the absence of Yates in the room, Erin found it easier to collect her thoughts. She cautiously attempted to move her arms, fearing she was still hanging in chains, and gasped in pain when she realized she could move slightly but each motion was excruciating.

Turning onto her side, she assessed if she could escape from her current situation, furrowing her hazel eyes as she sat up, wincing from the stinging sensation of her wounds with each movement.

Determined not to wait for Yates to return, Erin pushed through the pain as she rose to her feet, grasping the bedpost to steady herself. In a quiet whisper, she encouraged herself, 'Come on, Erin, you can do this.'

Glancing around for her shirt as she was only in her bra, Erin realized she didn't have time to worry about finding it. She was relieved that at least she still had her jeans on, despite the broken button.

Ignoring the pain shooting up her legs, she speculated that Yates may have taken advantage of her again while she was unconscious.

Erin proceeded slowly towards the door, maintaining her grip on the wall to prevent falling. She was in agony with each sharp pang coursing through her body, unsure of how much longer she could endure without escaping for help.

As she cautiously opened the door and peeked into the hall to ensure it was empty, she recognized that they were in a hotel.

She couldn't comprehend why no one seemed to hear her cries when Yates was assaulting her. She assumed that anyone with a sound mind was likely too frightened to intervene or inquire about the situation.

Erin halted momentarily and proceeded cautiously down the corridor, wincing as the chilly air caressed her exposed back. Despite this discomfort, she pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on her imperative task of eluding Yates before his anticipated return, the idea of him mentioning a friend's presence not alleviating her unease.

Upon reaching the elevator, she contemplated whether her team had arrived. If not, she planned to inform them of her whereabouts once she reached the Special Victims Unit headquarters.

Impatiently tapping her foot, she muttered to herself while waiting for the elevator to arrive, indifferent to the concerned gaze of an elderly man who briefly observed her distressing state.

Continuing to press the button, Erin mustered a deep breath, recognizing this as her opportunity to flee. However, her hopes were dashed as the elevator doors slid open to reveal Yates and another man within.

Yates inquired sternly, 'Where do you believe you are headed, detective?' He advanced out of the elevator with the newcomer. Erin, feeling uneasy, took several steps back, realizing she should have used the stairs rather than the elevator.

Observing Erin retreat from him and Mark, who wore a smirk, Yates saw the brunette turn and start running before stumbling and falling onto the hard carpet, emitting a cry.

Upon reaching Erin with Mark by his side, Yates chastised, 'Hm, hm, Detective, you should not attempt to escape.' Gripping her arm, he hoisted Erin to her feet and menacingly murmured, 'The real amusement is about to commence.'

Erin shuddered at his words, trying to break free from his hold, insisting, 'Release me,' but Yates disregarded her pleas and pulled her back to the room, Mark following with a smirk, remarking, 'She certainly possesses a strong spirit.'

Yates forcefully led Erin back to the room and positioned her next to the hanging chains, securing her arms and feet with handcuffs. Mark followed suit, wearing a smirk as he observed her physique.