𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘𝐆𝐈𝐑𝐋 [18+]

- 23 -

What the fuck is wrong with this bastard?

A couple of days ago, he stopped the texts and calls altogether, so I thought he'd given up, but he called me just now. What does that mean?

Am I supposed to feel hopeful because of it?

I exit the texts and open Instagram, then go to his profile like a junkie. He hasn't posted anything for a long time, but I scroll through the old pictures.

But he calls again. I ignore it again.

Val: You better answer if you don't want me to text your dad about us.

Zara: About us? There is no us.

Val: Are you okay?

I pause. Does he know?

Zara: Perfectly fine.

Val: Are you? Then why do you look like you want to slit your throat, baby girl?

My heart pounds as I read his words. His ability to get under my skin, to make me feel both furious and drawn to him, is maddening. I take a deep breath, trying to steady my thoughts.

Is he watching me?

Zara: Maybe I want to slit your throat.

Val: Aw, are you flirting with me? You should do it more often and then maybe I'll actually let you do it.

Zara: Careful, I'll make it slow and make sure you feel each second of it.

Val: I'll come right there and then.

Holy... A gasp escapes me. This motherfucker, I swear to god-

Val: Please do it, baby girl. I'll gladly lay down my life for you to slit it. Just remember, you won't stay breathing the next second because I'll be dragging you to hell after that.

Zara: You need to be locked the fuck up.

Val: But then how will I make you suffer, baby?

Zara: Why are you doing this?

Val: Because I want you. I want you to be mine.

Zara: I don't want you.

Val: I'll make you want me. I'll turn your mind into my little playground and watch you go spiralling down the path.

Zara: I'd rather die if that happens.

Val: You can try. But before that you'll agree to be mine.

Zara: You're impossible.

Val: And you're irresistible. Having fun at your parent's house?

His question hits me like a splash of cold water. I pause, staring at the screen. It's as if he's somehow seen through the walls I've built around myself, glimpsed into the chaos and stress I've been trying to hide.