Chapter 73 Seventy-three

• Maria
• The room has neither light nor air conditioning. I didn't expect another penthouse or mansion, but this is brutal. I'm a captive and being treated like one, sitting in a hard chair for what feels like hours. I strain my eyes in the dark, hoping nothing lives in here.
• My mouth is dry. I'm tired and thinking about my discomfort doesn't make me feel better. I lean against the back of the chair and close my eyes, trying to relax and imagine how I will feel when this is over.