Rain began to fall outside, dripping into the windows and chilling the house. I shivered, longing to wrap my arms around myself and protect my stinging skin from the cold, but straining at the ropes holding me would only make my wrists more raw. I pulled myself upright, leaning against one of the piano legs and watching the men.
"So, where's the one they were after?" One of them asked, tying a knot on the last bodybag and shoving it into a corner. Could they really not see me?
"Each one of you, take a different room in the back. I'll check here." The men dispersed throughout my house. I pulled my feet close to my body, shrinking against the piano. I watched the floor, and saw a pair of black shoes cross the room. They stopped in front of me, then the man crouched down, looking at me with a gentle smile. "Hey."
"You came," I whispered, and he nodded.
"Turn around," He asked, pulling a pocketknife from his jacket and flipping the blade open, then sawing through the rope. When I felt the bonds snap, I exhaled, relieved. "Here, come here," He said, holding out a hand. He helped out from the piano and to my feet. "Yikes," The guy hissed, taking in my cuts. "Don't worry. We'll get you cleaned up soon."
"Thank you." The guy shrugged out of his coat and wrapped it around me. I held it close.
"Alright, boys, let's go," He called, and when everyone had assembled, we walked out. I saw a black van idling in the driveway. Everyone piled in, but I hesitated. How many times did black vans lead to good things? "What's your name?" The boy asked me.
"Miriam." I said quietly.
"Miriam, I'm Agent Sam Toulouse. I promise I'll take care of you. Now, come on." Sam put his hand on the small of my back and led me to the van, opening the door and helping me in, then sliding in next to me. I leaned against him as the van sped away. Soon, I fell into a fitful sleep.
