𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘𝐆𝐈𝐑𝐋 [18+]

- 21 -

The fluorescent lights of the cell flicker, casting a harsh glow over the cold, concrete walls. The sound of the cell door creaking open wakes me from my restless sleep. My head throbs from the aftermath of adrenaline and alcohol, and my body aches from the uncomfortable position on the hard bench.

Fuck my head was splitting.

The sound of footsteps echoes down the corridor, growing louder. I peer through the bars and see two familiar figures approaching. My heart skips a beat as I recognise who it is.

Cherry stirs beside me, her eyes blinking open with confusion, while Evelyn shifts, stretching her stiff limbs.

My father commands attention as he strides in, transforming the atmosphere with an electric charge. Nathaniel Lincoln is my replicate, my aspirations, and the man behind whatever strength I have today. His blood runs through my veins, it possessed me to slaughter anyone who looked at me the wrong way.

The other half is my mom's which keeps me at bay.

He is the brain behind the Coln Enterprises whose marketing shares are higher than half of this country's combined. My Dad doesn't come from generational wealth or never had anyone to back him up. He climbed his way up — up the ruthless power ladder.

His tailored suit and confident gait exude power, making the air feel heavier, charged with authority. Beside him, Pen walks with an unwavering grace, her expression blank and chin held high like a loyal soldier ready for battle.

Pen glances at us, a sudden flash of concern in her eyes as she walks past with Dad.

Cherry lets out a low whistle as he walks by. "Damn, papi."

She stops when I glare at her.

"Mr. Lincoln," an officer calls out, rushing up to him.

"Why is my daughter still in the cell?"

The officer swallows hard, clearly intimidated. "Sir, we've been trying to resolve the situation. But the charges are serious, and the man they assaulted has powerful connections."

My father's expression remains stoic, but there's a flicker of frustration in his eyes. "I want my daughter and her friends released immediately."

While Dad and the officer converse, Pen steps forward, her gaze softening slightly as she takes in my dishevelled appearance. "Are you okay?" she asks, placing her hands on the cell bars.

I nod, glancing at Cherry and Evelyn who are now fully awake, watching the scene unfold with wide eyes. "We're fine. Just... tired."

Pen looks behind me at Evelyn, whose eyes are still blurry from sleep. Evelyn blinks slowly, trying to shake off the remnants of her nap, and gives Pen a small, tired smile.

Cherry, leaning against the wall with her arms crossed, tries to maintain her usual bravado but I can see the relief in her eyes as she watches Pen and my dad.