Chapter 9 First breath

GENESIS

My senses were heightened, absorbing every sound and scent around me. After thirteen long years of confinement, I found myself not only married but also in a car, venturing into the unknown. The fresh air brushed against my face, a sensation I had longed for.

"Come on," he urged, placing his hand at the small of my back. Instinctively, I recoiled from his touch and glanced up, unable to see his expression behind the large sunglasses he wore.

"What do you think I'm going to do to you here?" he asked, stepping closer. I fought the urge to flinch, instinctively shutting my eyes as I felt his hand on my waist, guiding me toward what I suspected was a mall.

Every sensation felt amplified. The sun warmed my skin, a stark contrast to the constant chill of my previous life. The air buzzed with the aroma of roasted chestnuts from a nearby vendor, mingling with the sharp scent of car exhaust and the delicate sweetness of flowers blooming in a planter by the entrance. It was a whirlwind of emotions, both liberating and frightening.

I took a tentative step forward, his hand gently steering me as we neared the mall's entrance. The glass doors opened with a soft whoosh, unveiling a vibrant new world. Inside, the air was refreshingly cool, infused with the zesty scent of citrus from the polished marble floors and walls adorned with gold-rimmed displays. My eyes widened in wonder, taking in the sights all around me.

As we ventured deeper into the space, it became evident that this was no typical shopping center; it radiated opulence and sophistication. Mannequins stood elegantly in sleek glass displays, adorned in exquisite garments that seemed more suited for a gallery than for everyday wear.

Dresses sparkled under the warm, golden illumination, their fabrics cascading like flowing water. Tailored suits hung with an air of royalty, as if crafted for nobility. Each brand I caught a glimpse of was unfamiliar, yet their essence of exclusivity was unmistakable.

People moved with an effortless grace, their footsteps whispering against the polished floor, voices muted as if in reverence. Women in sharp shoes and fitted blazers glided by, their arms laden with shopping bags featuring logos that were a mystery to me. Men strode confidently, their watches shimmering in the light, discussing their acquisitions in tones just audible enough to catch my attention.

"Ah, Mr. Blackwood, you've arrived," a young woman approached, clad in a fitted skirt, crisp white shirt, and blazer. Her hair was neatly styled in a bun, and her polished heels clicked against the marble floor. Her voice was sweet yet professional, rehearsed to perfection, and she didn't even acknowledge my presence.

"We have prepared what you requested," she stated, making me feel almost invisible. The atmosphere was so immaculate, so flawless, that I felt one misstep could disrupt the delicate balance.

"Good," Kier replied, his tone steady and authoritative. "Please bring them to my usual seat."

The woman nodded enthusiastically, already turning on her heel to fulfill his request.

As he guided me through the unfamiliar surroundings, I felt the weight of curious eyes upon us. Whispers floated through the air, and I instinctively lowered my gaze, allowing my hair to fall like a curtain, shielding me from their scrutiny.

"Take a seat," he commanded, and I caught a glimpse of a plush couch peeking through my tangled locks. Complying, I sank into the soft velvety cushions, feeling fear and anxiety.

He settled into a chair a short distance away, and I clasped my hands tightly in my lap, my fingers wrangling nervously. The atmosphere buzzed with an energy that felt overwhelming, as if the world around me was racing forward while I remained frozen in this strange, new environment.

"Mr. Blackwood, we have curated the finest selections for you," the woman's voice chimed in, drawing my attention. I lifted my head slightly to see her approaching, arms laden with garments encased in protective coverings.

Kier nodded in acknowledgment and then turned his gaze toward me. "For her," he stated, and I noticed the woman's eyes widen momentarily before she quickly masked her surprise with a polite smile.

"Right this way, miss," she beckoned, gesturing toward a door. I glanced at Kier, seeking his approval, and he gave a subtle nod. Rising from the couch, I felt a slight tremor in my legs as I followed the woman through the doorway.

Once inside, I paused, awaiting her guidance. She instructed me to remove my clothing, which consisted solely of my husband's oversized shirt. I complied, feeling a rush of vulnerability.

"Oh my god," she gasped, and I didn't need to look to understand the reason behind her reaction; I was acutely aware of my own body. We stood in silence for a few moments before she handed me a garment and exited the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

I removed the protective cover and revealed the yellow dress. Slipping it on, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it fit me perfectly, as if it were tailored to my body type, hugging my waist and bust while flowing elegantly at the bottom. I gazed at my reflection in the full-length mirror, admiring the gown.

After a moment, I turned away and stepped outside. He glanced at me from beneath his shade, offering nothing more than a nod to the lady before I retreated back inside. That was the routine for the next hour.

Now, I sat in the car as he loaded bag after bag of clothes and shoes into the back seat. The sheer volume of items made me feel uneasy and exhausted, but I kept my thoughts to myself.

He got into the car and began driving, maintaining the same silence as we had in the boutique. Strangely, I found comfort in this quiet.

As we entered the estates, I caught sight of a car that looked all too familiar. Suddenly, it hit me why it was so recognizable, and a wave of nausea washed over me as I spotted him. Jimmy. What was he doing here?

Kier parked the car, but I couldn't bring myself to open the door. My body felt frozen as I watched Jimmy, that same smile I had come to dread plastered on his face as he stared at us.

That smile-it hadn't changed.

My hands trembled as old bruises burned beneath my skin.

Not again. Please, not again.