Chapter 37: (Aaira's pov)
16 August, 2025.
The room was colder than usual, I lay on the floor, the hard surface a harsh contrast to my aching body. My limbs were bound, my skin marred with the evidence of relentless cruelty. Blood had dried in dark, rusty streaks across my face and body, mingling with dirt and grime. My hair was a tangled mess, sticking to my forehead and shoulders in matted clumps.
The door creaked open, a sound that had become both a harbinger of dread. The old woman stepped inside, she carried a metal plate of food, its contents obscured by a flimsy cover.
Old woman: Eat.
Her voice was curt, almost as she slid the plate across the floor. The food-some unrecognizable slop-sloshed around, its aroma a sickly blend of rancid and overcooked. I had lost track of how long it had been since I had eaten anything that resembled nourishment.
My stomach churned at the sight, but hunger, was the only reason I was going. I struggled to push myself up from the floor. My wrists were raw from the ropes, and my legs felt like lead. With a deep breath, I managed to sit up, my vision swimming as I tried to steady myself.
── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ──"Caught in this merciless tale, I clung to the hope that love could still save me."── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ──
The old woman watched with a cruel satisfaction as I shakily reached for the plate. My hands, trembling uncontrollably, managed to grip the edge. I peered at the food, trying to suppress the nausea rising in my throat. The hunger, though fierce, was overpowered by the repulsion I felt.
Old woman: Faster. I don't have all night.
Her words were a sharp command, I forced myself to scoop some of the food into my mouth, my gag reflex protesting as the unpleasant texture and taste filled my mouth. I chewed slowly, each bite was a struggle.
Aaira: Can I use the restroom?
The old woman's eyes narrowed, a cruel smile tugging at her lips. She took a step closer, looming over me as I continued to eat.
Old woman: You went just four hours ago, didn't you? Why now?
I swallowed hard, trying to keep my voice steady despite the throbbing pain and discomfort.
Aaira: Please, open my hands. I need to go to the restroom.
Her chuckle was low, almost mocking. She leaned in, her breath warm and stinking of something foul.
Old woman: Why should I? You're only trying to buy yourself some time.
I lowered my gaze, a wave of desperation crashing over me. I whispered again, my voice barely audible.
Aaira: Please... I can't hold it much longer.
The old woman's expression softened for a fleeting moment, but her resolve remained unyielding. She moved closer and crouched down, her face inches from mine.
Old woman: Fine. I'll give you a chance, but make it quick. And don't think about trying anything foolish.
With a swift motion, she untied the ropes from my wrists, her hands rough and unfeeling. I winced as the circulation returned to my hands, a sharp, tingling sensation spreading through my limbs.
The old woman's grip was not painful as she helped me to my feet. My legs felt like jelly, but I managed to stand with her support. She guided me towards the lighted area.
When we reached the bathroom, she opened the door for me and gave me a push inside. The small, dingy room was poorly lit, but it was just as opposite to the darkness of the room I had been confined to. As soon as the door closed behind me, the silence seemed almost deafening.
YOU ARE READING
In Another's Skin
Fanfiction"Each night, I wished for you to find me, like a prince rescuing his princess from evils. I wished for you to be my hero, even as the pages of my life turned against me. Each night, I cast my wishes into the dark, praying you'd come and turn my sto...
