☠︎︎Hunter's POV☠︎︎
Two weeks had passed since Amanda's arrival.
An angel I stumbled upon one stormy night,It had amused me how she was so petrified of her mother finding out she slept out than a man who could have killed her. Her innocence instantly had captivated me, consuming my every thought.
I had delved deep into her life, uncovering every detail I could find but even so She had remained a mystery, a puzzle begging to be solved. What had drawn me to her that night? It had been as if she had cast a spell, enchanting me completely.
When I had learned of her decision to move to Avelora, I had known it was time to make her mine.
Since that encounter when she tripped and fell because I startled her, I had avoided engaging her in conversation. Speaking to her had required finesse, a delicate dance I was more than capable of leading.
"Hunter," Zack's voice interrupted my thoughts.
"You should be more fearful of your life, what are you doing sleeping on the roof edge like that, what if you fall" he scolded.
I took out the cigarette from my mouth.
"You're just being paranoid," I huffed out the smoke and then sat up.
"You're just so unpredictable, you always make me paranoid," he remarked.
"How Could I die before I kill him?, That would be very disrespectful" I commented.
"What a gloomy thing to say. So, if he wasn't alive, would you leave me all alone in the world? How cruel of you," he remarked.
"What do you mean alone? You'd have all those girls to comfort you," I replied.
He grabbed my hand.
"Even if I had the entire population of girls around to keep me entertained, I would still be miserable because a world without my best friend is not worth living," he stated, staring into my eyes.
"Try that trick on someone who'd buy it," I started, removing my hand from his grip.
"I wasn't joking, but anyway, I received a call from the company. There is a problem with the shipments of the diamonds, and our suppliers called for a meeting," he explained.
Zack and I owned a jewelry and clothing company called H&Z, which had been very successful and had several branches around the continent. But what were two CEOs of a successful company doing back in college?
That was because Zack wanted to experience campus life but forced me to tag along, and he seemed so happy I could never say no to him. Both of us attended an online university and, as such, never experienced normal college life.
Zack was the only living person I fully trusted. How we met and how we became 'friends' was rather pathetic if you asked me but non the less to me Zack meant more than my own life.
"Let's do that tomorrow," I let out.
"That's fine by me. Anyway, how are things going with my sister-in-law? Have you spoken to her yet?" he asked.
"Not yet."
"You're such a coward. I remember that night when you two first met. You came running, storming into my room, drenched from the rain. You didn't even care that I was having sex, You were so eager to share that a girl had caught your interest. I thought you would be hot on her trail the moment you saw her again. Yet, here you are, stalling," Zack jeered.
"Not stalling, just waiting for the opportune moment to talk to her," I corrected him.
He chuckled, clearly amused by my response.
"Whatever you say. If you need a wingman, just give the word, and I'll play cupid for you. It seems years without any romantic encounters have made you wary of interacting with the opposite sex," he suggested.
"Aren't you supposed to be plugging your dick into a woman right about now?" I retorted sharply.
He laughed, clearly unfazed by my retort.
"I'm only stating the facts. Don't get all worked up. You do have a more captivating presence when you smile... By the way, I'm going to see if I can charm one of the female lecturers. I'll call you later. How about we hang out tonight? My treat," he offered casually.
"Use a condom , the last thing I want is seeing tiny versions of you running around" I stated bluntly.
"Don't you ever get tired of being an asshole all of the time-whatever, I'll call you after classes" he said, walking away from me.
I discarded the cigarette, crushing it beneath my shoe.
I made my way to class, As the room filled with chattering students, I took my customary seat at the back, observing the scene before me.
'how much longer do I have to put up with this?'
Pulling out my phone, I immersed myself in a game.
I slowly raised my gaze from the screen of my phone and caught sight of Amanda. She was scanning the room, searching for an available seat. Sensing an opportunity, I allowed myself a moment to appreciate her captivating beauty.
'I want you'
'Amanda Miller. I want you so badly,' I thought to myself, my mind already strategizing the best approach.
As she drew closer, I acted swiftly, seizing her delicate hand in mine. I couldn't help but notice its softness, a stark contrast to my own firm grip. She met my eyes for a brief moment, her gaze then shifting to our entwined hands. Silence hung in the air, but I remained unperturbed.
"Ms Amanda right?.....If you're looking for a vacant seat, there's one next to me. No need to trouble yourself," I stated, a smile gracing my lips.
Smiling wasn't a common occurrence for me.
"Th-thank you," she stuttered, avoiding direct eye contact, her shyness palpable.
Releasing her hand, I gestured for her to take the seat beside me. Her hair fell gracefully, partially obscuring her exquisite face. She was a vision, and I knew.
"I thought all the seats were occupied. Thank you for finding me a place to sit," she remarked, her fingers idly toying-a subtle way to gauge her nerves.
"No problem at all. If anything, I should be the one expressing gratitude. It's an honor to have such a beautiful woman seated beside me," I smoothly responded.
Her hands instinctively rose to cover her reddening cheeks, attempting to hide her reaction.
"Hunter, right?" she inquired, a blend of curiosity and timidity in her voice.
"So you've heard about me"I inquired.
"It's not hard to learn about that name, you're quite popular"she replied, her gaze fixed on her hands.
"Uh I see, you've probably heard the rumors about me then,I suppose "I asked.
She smiled softly.
"Oh no uh I-i'm not one to believe every rumor I hear. I don't know you personally so I can't judge you, you helped me out that Day, today too,so thank you"She Said quietly.
"I see"I commented.
my gaze locked with hers, penetrating and inscrutable. She quickly averted her eyes, seemingly overwhelmed by my intense presence.
"Why do you always stare at me? I've noticed it before during classes too," she blurted out, catching me slightly off guard. It was rare for someone to confront me so directly.
I chuckled, reveling in the peculiar nature of this girl.
"I've simply never encountered someone so beautiful. My intention is merely always to steal a glance, but I often find myself unable to look away. My apologies if it creeped you out," I explained.
She didn't respond, opting to turn slightly, veiling her face behind a curtain of hair. Her expression remained hidden from view.
"Okay, students, settle down," the professor's voice cut through the room as he entered-a man in his late thirties.
"As you all know, midterms are fast approaching, and considering the lackluster performance in the previous quiz, I've decided to give you an assignment to help redeem your grades. You'll be working in pairs. Once you find a partner, a sheet will circulate around the class for you to write down both your names. After class, I will provide you with the assignment questions," the professor's words echoed through the room, presenting an opportunity that would serve my purposes perfectly.
I cleared my throat, trying to get Amanda's attention.
"If you don't have anyone in mind, would you like to be my partner." I asked.
Amanda's eyes widened for a brief moment.
"Uh I'm sorry,I was planning on pairing up with my friend "she quickly responded.
I lowered my voice conspiratorially. "I see, I guess I'll be doing it alone this time as well" I paused, allowing the weight of those words to settle.
Amanda's expression shifted, a mixture of intrigue and caution. "Do you always do group assignments alone"
I sighed, feigning a touch of vulnerability. "There are a lot of rumors going around about me, very bad rumors. No one dares to approach me, let alone partner with me for an assignment. It's a rather lonely existence, I must admit."
Her gaze softened, sympathy emanating from her. "That must be tough. But why would you want to partner with me then?"
I leaned in closer, my eyes locking onto hers with intensity. "Because, Amanda, You're not one to be swayed by baseless rumors, that's what you said right. You seem like an interesting person"
She hesitated, her brows furrowing as she considered my words. "Uh..."
"It's okay if you really don't want to partner up, I'm not trying to pressure you into doing anything you are uncomfortable with" I spoke.
She didn't reply, I picked up my phone and continued playing my game from before.
'I guess it's a good thing that I was too lazy to deal with these rumors going around '
'they actually served a good purpose today '
'although, I don't want my Amanda to have to listen to bad things about me all the time'
There were rumors about me that I was involved in a gang or something among other things. They were all baseless rumors that started a few days prior when I beat up some guy half to death.
"Hunter...."Amanda called.
Amanda extended her hand tentatively, uncertainty mingling with curiosity.
"Listen I don't know you or why people are spreading such rumors about you, you have been nothing but a gentleman to me for the brief time we've met. I don't mind being your partner,if you still want to,that is"She stated.
I smiled at her. I clasped her tiny hand in mine firmly, sealing our pact.
"I look forward to working with you on this assignment" I replied.
'Amanda Miller,this is just but the beginning'
'not only in an assignment,I'll make you my partner in life too'
»»»»»»
"I haven't seen Amanda hanging out with anyone aside from that girl. I'm sure she's the one who told Amanda about the rumors," I spoke up holding my phone to my ear.
"Don't do anything stupid though, I'll handle her and clean up the rumors circulating. I won't let anyone tarnish my sweet little baby brother's reputation," he declared, his tone protective.
A cold chill ran down my spine as his words hit me. I cringed, an uncomfortable mix of annoyance and frustration welling up inside me.
"I'm not your brother, and don't ever call me sweet or anything like that, and we are the same age why are you calling me little" I warned, emphasizing my point.
I heard him laugh, his amusement evident in his voice. It only added to my irritation.
"You already signed the adoption papers and I'm older than you by a few month-"he Said
"What adoption papers,I never signed anything "I remarked.
"That day when you sold yourself to save me, you automatically became my brother, I thought I told you already "he remarked.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. "You really are delusional aren't you'"
He chuckled again, seemingly amused by my reaction."only when I tease you like this do you ever seem to reply with more than just a sentence, I enjoy times like this"
" where are you right now?" I asked, changing the subject.
He paused for a moment before responding, his voice filled with mischief. "I'm at the library with this hot chick. You want to have a tag team?"
I glanced over at Amanda, who was making her way outside the campus. The timing couldn't have been better, but I had other plans in mind.
"Why would i" I replied, my voice determined. "I'm heading home now. Just give me a call when you're done, and we can hang out and catch up on some paperwork for H&Z."
He paused, building up the suspense. "Brian managed to locate another one... Doctor Matthew"
"Where?" I asked, my voice tense with anticipation.
He took his time, relishing the moment. "There's a bar not too far from campus. I'll send you the address."
"Okay," I replied, my voice filled with determination. "Send it"
I ended the call and entered my car. Shortly afterward, a text message arrived with the details. I read the address, my thoughts focused on the task at hand.
I drove to the bar, my mind consumed by thoughts of retribution. Parking behind the establishment, I gathered everything I needed, ensuring I was well-prepared. With purposeful steps, I entered the deserted bar, it looked like the place hadn't opened at all.
'why is he the only one in a bar around this time'
'the setting is too convenient,it's too perfect '
'did Zack do this'
my eyes locked on Matthew, who sat alone watching a football game.
I relished the moment, knowing that he would soon face the consequences of his actions. I approached him and took a seat, ordering a drink to maintain a facade of normalcy. When I looked at the bartender, he nodded.
The bartender happened to be Brian, our most trusted and loyal confidant, had been an integral part of our lives long before the establishment of H&Z. We had encountered him when he was just a young individual, facing a dangerous encounter with some thugs.
From that point onward, Brian dedicated himself to ensuring my safety and well-being.
Brian's commitment to his responsibilities was unwavering. He possessed a strong work ethic that permeated every task he undertook. His attention to detail and precision earned him my trust. Whether it was protection, coordinating operations, or safeguarding our interests, Brian executed his duties with unwavering dedication.
Over the years, Brian evolved into an indispensable member of our team. His loyalty remained steadfast, He had an innate ability to anticipate my needs and act accordingly, often going above and beyond.
"Mind having a drink with me?" I asked, offering him the tainted glass. Oblivious to the danger, he accepted it without hesitation.
"Thanks, man," he said, his gratitude evident in his tone. He gulped it all down.
"No problem, Mr. Matthew," I replied, a hint of satisfaction in my voice. Finally, his gaze met mine, and his eyes widened in recognition and fear.
"Hu-hunter?" he stammered, his voice trembling.
"Hunter. If you're going to say it, say it right," I corrected him, relishing the power I had over him.
"No, this can't be. I must be dreaming," he muttered, rising from his seat, panic clouding his face.
I stood up, my presence unwavering. "Does it feel like a dream to you?" I asked, my voice cutting through the air.
He shook his head, pulling at his hair in desperation. "No, stay away from me!"
In a moment of desperation, he pulled out a gun and aimed it at me. Reacting swiftly, I kicked the weapon out of his hand, sending it skidding across the floor.
"Mr. Matthew," I said calmly, advancing toward him as he trembled with fear. "Stay away, someone help me!" he screamed, his voice filled with desperation.
I glanced at the counter, realizing the bartender was absent. Sighing, I spoke with a mix of determination and mercy, "I'll give you a minute head start."
Without wasting a moment, he bolted out of the bar, fleeing for his life. The bartender emerged from the back room.
"Oh my what happened here?" he asked, surveying the scene.
I shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "Just a little misunderstanding. Everything's under control now."
"Is running an empty bar a hobby of yours "I asked.
He chuckled.
"I just recently joined, after I heard he was your target,I wanted to help you in anyway I can sir so I set up an ideal way to get him. This is probably the only place he wasn't surrounded by his friends and colleagues "He explained.
I straightened my posture.
"I see. Well done "I praised.
As I stood by the back door,the sight of Matthew, on the ground, vomiting blood made me happy,I felt like laughing for some reason.
"What did you put in my drink"he asked.
Kneeling down beside him, I watched as he struggled for breath, his words barely audible. His question lingered in the air.
"It's nothing lethal," I replied, my voice filled with a mix of coldness. "But it should be enough to make your life flash before your eyes."
His gasps for air grew weaker, and his body went limp as he lost consciousness.
»»»»»
"How does it feel in there," I asked the naked bloody man in front of me.
He had bruises, whip marks, and cuts all over he's body, three fingers on each hand were missing. I had been torturing him for an hour and a half and starting to get bored.
I took him to a special place, a place he could scream all he wanted and no one would hear him. It was a hidden underground hideout
The underground hideout was my sanctuary, a place where the darkest parts of me could thrive .
I put him in a glass box after torturing him to my satisfaction and all. I observed him in his desperate struggle, his hands bloody and bruised from relentlessly pounding against the thick glass.
"How does it feel on the other side of the cage?" I taunted, my voice dripping with a mix of amusement and cruelty.
He glared at me, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and fear. "Give it up, doctor," I continued, relishing in his futile attempts. "You've been doing that for five minutes now. That glass is extremely thick. You can't break it with your bare hands. And besides aren't you missing a couple of fingers"
Mocking him only intensified his frustration. His relentless assault on the unyielding barrier was a testament to his desperation, his refusal to accept his current predicament. But no matter how hard he fought, escape was an illusion he would never grasp.
As he exhausted himself, his hands battered and broken,I had him right where I wanted him - trapped, defeated, and at my mercy.
As I stood near the glass box, watching him crumble to the ground, tears streaming down his face, and blood dripping from his nose, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. The pain he was experiencing was a fraction of the torment he had inflicted upon me.
"Why are you doing this?" he pleaded, his voice filled with anguish and confusion.
I took a moment to let his question hang in the air before responding, my tone calm. "Why?" I repeated, emphasizing each syllable. "Why am I doing this? You don't know "
His eyes widened with a mix of fear and realization as my words sank in.
"It was my job," he began to explain, desperation lacing his voice. "I couldn't afford to lose it. I had no option."
His feeble justification only fueled the fire within me. I leaned forward, placing my fist against the glass, the barrier that separated us.
" that's a lie doctor,You had multiple opportunities to help me," I stated.
"But you just sat there, watching you, silently watched as he treated me and my mother like animals in that asylum."
"You belong in that asylum," he seethed, his voice quivering with a mix of fury and grief. "And when you go back, I hope your father finally kills you, This is wrong, you heartless monster."
I tilted my head.
"what I'm doing is nothing compared to what I went through, right, Doctor?" I retorted, my voice dripping with scorn. "Do you know how traumatizing it is for a child to witness such horrors? To be deprived of a mother's love?"
The memories of my mother's suffering, her anguish and helplessness, surged to the forefront of my mind. The tears I had shed, the nights filled with fear and despair, all resurfaced.
"That was the only thing I asked from you people, you could treat me like a punching bag, do whatever experiments you wanted on me, make me kill anyone you wished but you'd leave my mother alone, that's all I asked in return. She did nothing wrong,she didn't have to go in that way. The only wrong she committed was trying to have a normal family,all she wanted was to be happy,why did you have to take her away from me"I asked
"I'm going to make you pay for what you did," I declared, my voice filled with a chilling determination. "And not just you, but every one of you who were complicit in our suffering. Anyone who stands in the way between me and Justin"
I walked to a chair and then took a seat. The worn fabric embraced my body, offering a momentary respite from the turmoil that surrounded me.
In the silence of the room, I allowed my thoughts to wander, seeking solace in the stillness.
"Snakes are indeed fascinating creatures,aren't they" I spoke up.
"Their sleek bodies, mesmerizing patterns, and the deadly venom they possess. It's a remarkable blend of beauty and danger."
As I approached the glass box, a sense of determination coursed through my veins. With each step, his eyes widened, a flicker of fear dancing within them.
Reaching the box, I carefully climbed a few steps, positioning myself at the edge. The small opening on top of the box beckoned me, a gateway to unleash the retribution I so desperately craved. With steady hands, I tilted the bucket, allowing its contents to pour into the enclosure.
As he stood there, trembling with anticipation, He had prepared himself for the slithering menace of snakes, assuming he knew what awaited him within the box. But to his surprise, as i opened the enclosure, a swarm of venomous scorpions emerged, their pincers raised and tails poised to strike.
His eyes widened in horror. The scorpions scurried across the floor, their sharp stingers glistening with deadly venom.
Frantically, he tried to retreat, his footsteps echoing through the hallway as he ran in circles inside the glass box, attempting to escape the relentless onslaught. But the scorpions were relentless in their pursuit, their poisonous stings finding their mark, injecting their toxic venom into his legs.
With each sting, his legs began to swell. He could no longer maintain his frantic movements, he collapsed to the ground, his screams piercing the air.
He had expected snakes, but the scorpions had delivered a far more sinister fate.
"Do you want to say something, my good doctor?" I asked seeing his lips moving.
"You are the devil himself," he said before a scorpion ripped out his eye fighting with its friend to get a bite while others crawled into his mouth biting his tongue.
"Devil?"
As I stared blankly at Mr. Matthew, a whirlwind of thoughts churned within me.
"I wonder," I started to say, my voice barely above a whisper, "what My Amanda is doing at this exact moment."