Finding Storme: The Lost Files

"I want a way out," she said, barely above a whisper. "A real one."

His smile deepened. "And what makes you think I give out favors?"

She hesitated, the truth burning in her throat. "Because I'm not afraid of you."

For a moment, he just watched her, silent and unreadable. Then, to her surprise, he laughed. Low, rich, and full of something she couldn't place.

"I like you," he said, pushing himself upright. His gaze sharpened, the playfulness fading. "But understand this, if you step into my world, there's no halfway. You do what I say, when I say it. You work for me, you eat because I let you. And if you cross me, lil' mama..."

He leaned closer, his voice a quiet threat. "I'll bury you."

The weight of his words hung heavy in the air. Storme knew she should be scared. Any sane person would be. But the hunger gnawing inside her was stronger.

"I understand," she said.