Leticia wasn't sure if she'd heard correctly. Her eyes widened, 'is he really going to let me go?' she thought and her heart leapt with excitement.
"Really?!" But Devon just stood up and walked away, his expression unreadable. At that moment, he looked like Quynn. Leticia rushed after him, her mind racing. They made their way out of the library, through halls and doors until they walked out of the mansion itself.
Leticia's heart was pounding in excitement but also fear. He'd refused to let her go home all this while and suddenly he's allowing? Maybe he's grown tired of her. Leticia decided not to think about it as they walked further.
They soon reached a vast field, much to her surprise and she frowned, confused. "Why are we here?" she asked, but Devon remained silent. Her initial excitement was beginning to die as she looked at the maze built with Yew.
Suddenly, he spoke, his cold deep voice sending shivers down her spine. "You can't just go like that, Leticia. If you want me to let you go, you must enter this maze and meet me at the exit." His eyes suddenly gleamed with a mischievous light and Leticia's heart skipped a beat.
"But—" Leticia began, wanting to protest. What game was he trying to play? If he isn't going to let her go, he should just say! The maze was wider than anyone she's ever seen! What if she never comes out in fact?
Devon cut her off, his voice sharp as a knife. "If you can't do it, then don't start it!" he snapped.
Leticia clamped her mouth shut, unwilling to provoke him further. She didn't want to risk him ending this whole thing. Instead, she took a deep breath and nodded defiantly. "I can do it," she said, her voice firm.
Devon handed her his golden wristwatch that was beaming under the sun. "To keep track of time." He said. "You have five hours. If you fail, you have no chance of ever getting out of here again and you dare not ask for another release."
Leticia felt a shiver run down her spine as she took the watch. She checked the time - 12:30. She had to move fast.
She smiled, expecting him to smile back but instead, he turned away, his eyes cold and distant. Leticia felt a pang of hurt, surprised by the sudden change in his demeanor. He walked away, leaving her feeling confused and a little wounded.
She shook off the feeling, focusing on the task ahead, "Let's do this," she said, determination in her voice.
As she entered the maze, Leticia realized it was much larger than she'd though. The Yew plants seemed to stretch on forever, their berries glinting in the sunlight. She didn't let that discourage her though. She was more than determined to get the hell out of Devon's mansion.
Nothing would stop her! Not even a wide maze!
******
Devon looked up from his tablet as Luis arranged the files on the table. His once blank face twisted into a sinister grin as he asked Luis, "What's the time?"
Luis checked his phone, "4pm."
Devon's chuckle made Luis glare lightly at him "She thinks she can leave," Devon said, his voice dripping with amusement.
Luis sighed, his light red eyes filled with concern. "You shouldn't have given her false hope, Devon."
Devon merely shrugged, his wicked smile still plastered on his red lips. "She's just really stupid."
*****
Leticia's was confused. She had been in and out few mazes before, but this one was like a garden in hell. It was unlike any she had ever been in.
The twisting paths and identical leaves made her feel like she was just walking in circles without making any progress. Desperate to find a way out, she had picked leaves to mark her trail, but even that failed. The towering plants blocked her view, making it impossible to see what was ahead.
And to make matters worse, she was running out of time. She checked the watch and panic set in - 4:15pm. Was Devon waiting for her already?
She even attempted to climb over the plants, but thorns pierced her flesh, and she fell, hissing in pain. On the verge of surrender, she trudged on, her feet carrying her in circles.
"If I lose, I'm stuck here forever," she whispered hopelessly , desperation creeping into her voice. "Lord, please help me," she prayed, hoping for a miracle to guide her out of the hell like maze.
Just as she thought she'd never escape, Leticia finally saw an opening and rushed towards it without wasting more time, relieved to escape the maze. But then, her joy was short-lived as she took in the familiarity of the place. It was the entrance of the maze!
She had spent 4 hours and 30 minutes only to end up where she'd started. Tears filled her tired eyes as she felt a sense of hopelessness. If she went in again, she wouldn't make it, and the cycle would repeat.
Leticia decided to walk around and find Devon who had said he'll be at the exit, and maybe explain it all to him. Maybe he could give her another chance. It sounded impossible but just maybe.
But when she went around the maze, she realized there was no exit. So, Devon had lied to her? That ignited a fire within her, and her blood began to boil. He had deliberately raised her hopes, only to dash them. It was clear he never intended to let her go.
The more she thought about his deception, the angrier she became. She suddenly felt a strong urge to find him and destroy his handsome face. As Leticia was about to storm off, something made her pause.
She glanced at her wristwatch and saw she still had time to escape. Without hesitation, she took off in a sprint, her legs carrying her as fast as they could.
She didn't think about the consequences or anything else, just focused on putting the mansion behind her. She dodged the guards and silently hoped the wolves weren't nearby. She soon spotted the huge golden gate and her blood raced in excitement, fear and anxiety. How would she pass? The guards there were like five.
Then, a car blue came her way. She frantically waved it down without thinking much. Maybe she could get help. The car came to a stop right in front of her and the rear window rolled down, a pair of red eyes glaring out at her.
"Miss Ruolan," Leticia greeted with a slight bow, trying not to let her dislike for Ruolan be noticed.
Ruolan narrowed her gaze. "What are you doing out here?" She knew how protective Devon was of this lowly human, so he wouldn't just let her out.
Leticia stammered, "I... was..."
Ruolan smirked, "Are you trying to escape? Devon wouldn't be happy to hear that, would he?"
Leticia pleaded, her eyes going wide, "Please help me."
Ruolan didn't like her one bit and didn't want to help her. But leaving her here would only get her closer to Devon. "Okay, come in," she said begrudgingly.
Leticia thanked her and entered the car. The driver drove off.
As they drove away from the mansion, Leticia felt a mix of relief and fear. She was finally free! In fact, she could cry!
Leticia didn't notice but Ruolan gave her driver a knowing look their through the mirror and he nodded in understanding.
As they drove through the winding roads, Leticia suddenly noticed they were heading into the wilderness. She felt a sense of unease growing inside her. "Miss Ruolan, where are we going?" she asked, trying to sound calm. She knew this wasn't the way she took when she was coming here.
They were surrounded by nothing but bushes and trees, and the isolation made her skin crawl. She turned to see Ruolan glaring at her with pure contempt, and her heart leapt.
'What does Devon want with this plain girl?' Ruolan thought to herself, her mind seething with annoyance and jealousy. "Getting rid of her won't be too hard.'
Suddenly, Ruolan's voice cut through the air, cold and menacing. "Driver, stop the car."
Leticia's heart raced as she frowned, "Miss—"
But Ruolan cut her off, her voice dripping with malice. "I hate the sight of you around Devon. He's mine. Before I lose my temper and do something even worse, get out."
Leticia's eyes widened in terror as she pleaded, "B-but...please don't leave me here...it's not safe... I'm not even with him again,please."
Ruolan's face twisted in a snarl. "Driver."
The driver, his face expressionless, got out and grabbed Leticia's arm, yanking her out of the car.
"Leave me! Please, Miss Ruolan, please...don't do this..." she begged, but the driver threw her to the ground, her body crashing against the stony earth, scarring her knees.
Before she could even stand up, the driver had gotten back in the car and sped away, leaving Leticia alone and frightened in the vast wilderness. The sound of the car's engine faded into the distance, leaving only the eerie silence of the bushes and Leticia's ragged breathing.
Leticia laid tiredly for a few minutes before standing up. She knew she was in the middle of nowhere. The wind howled, and the darkness seemed to closing in around her. She began to walk, but as she walked, she heard howls and barks in the distance, and her heart raced with fear.
Tears rolled down her pale cheeks. All she wanted was to go home but no! Devon had to put her through all of these! Would she become food to the wild animals? So she'll actually never get to see her family again. More tears spilled out of her eyes as she continued to walk aimlessly.
******
Devon was boiling with anger. Literally. He snarled at the guards, "You're telling me you didn't see a blonde girl leaving this place? Then you're fucking useless!" Not sparing a second, he shoved his long sharp nails into the guard's throat and pulled out his esophagus. The other guards trembled in fear. One even peed involuntarily out of fear.
Luis stepped before Devon, trying to prevent more death," Devon, let's think this through."
But Devon was beyond reason. "Then who are those who left the house?" he growled, his eyes blazing with fury.
"Only Master Koa and Miss Ruolan and her friend," one of the guards stammered, utmost fear palpable in his whole existence.
Devon's eyes turned frightenly dark. "What friend?" The guards' eyes widened in realization. "A... blonde girl."
Devon's face twisted in rage. He dashed away, leaving the guards in a state of terror. Luis sighed and said to one of them, "Clear this." referring to the dead guard.
******
Leticia walked for what felt like hours, her heart heavy with fear. She checked the watch - 7:58pm
As she walked, the darkness seemed to grow thicker, like a palpable fog. She stumbled over rocks and roots, her eyes straining to see ahead. The howls and barks grew louder, and she knew she wasn't alone. Fear gripped her heart, but she refused to give up. She had to keep moving for she couldn't sleep here. For once, Devon didn't occupy her thoughts; she was too focused on survival to think about that monster!
Just as she began to worry about herself, a car pulled over, its headlights casting a warm glow. She took a step backwards as the rear window rolled down, and a gentle male voice asked, "It's late, pretty lady. Are you lost?"
Though she couldn't see the person's face, his kind tone put her at ease. She feltperhaps this stranger could help her. "Yes. I am."
The back door opened, and his gentle voice said, "Allow me to be of help."
Leticia smiled, ignoring the nagging feeling at the back of her mind, "Thanks," and got in. The door closed as she settled beside him and the car began to move.
That's when she noticed the man's intense gaze. His piercing green eyes were fixed on her, making her feel uneasy. He was a middle-aged man, but his features and charming smile made him appear younger.
"How did you get lost, pretty lady?" he asked, his voice smooth.
Leticia hesitated, "I... was coming from a friend's place." She tried to sound convincing, but her mind raced with thoughts of Devon and the events that had unfolded.
He didn't take his eyes off her. "I see," he said, his gaze lingering on her face. "I'm Maddox Govan. And you are...?"
Leticia lied again, "K... Kristen. Kristen Stewart." She hoped he wouldn't notice her nervousness.
Maddox's smile widened, "Nice to meet you, Kristen. I hope we can be really good friends." His words sent a shiver down her spine, and she wondered if she had made a mistake by getting into the car with this stranger.
She instinctively tried to shift away, but he reached out and grasped her leg, his hand like a vice. "We'll be good friends, Kristen," he whispered, his breath hot against her skin as he moved closer to her . Leticia's heart raced and she tried to push him away. "Please, stop."
But he only leaned closer, his green eyes gleaming with lust, making Leticia's heart race wildly when he asked "Should we stay at my place tonight, or do you want me right now?"
Leticia's panic surged. "Stop!" she snapped, slapping his hand away from her skin. "Leave me alone! Stop the car, please!" She called to the driver "Hey, don't touch me!" She tried to sound firm, but her voice trembled with fear.
Maddox's grip on Leticia's face tightened, his voice almost crazy. "Shut up, you dirty slut. Before I..." But the car screeched to a halt and they were almost shoved forward.
He pushed her away, her back hitting the door and he asked his driver angrily, "What is it, Ukrian?"
The driver replied, "Boss, some cars double-crossed ours and blocked our way."
Maddox burst out of the car, dragging Leticia with him because he had a feeling she would make a run. More tears began to roll off her cheeks. She didn't dare run because the darkness was so thick she couldn't even see the moon. So trying to run would be suicidal.
Maddox stormed towards the car that had double crossed his, towards the guy leaning causally it. "What sort of idiot parks his car like this!? You pathetic little punk! Thinking you own the world. Get your forsaken car out of my way!" he screamed, his voice echoing through the darkness.
The guy, still leaning casually against his black car, seemed unfazed by Maddox' words. He slowly looked up, his face once hidden behind a hoodie then came to a full view.
Leticia was standing beside Maddox, tight grip on her and tears blurred her vision. But as she looked up, she made out the guy's his face and her heart fell.
It was like a punch to the gut, leaving her breathless. Her shoulders slumped in defeat, her escape plans shattered. The guy's face was the last thing she wanted to see, and she knew she was in trouble.
Tears welled up in Leticia's eyes as she gazed at Devon, his dark red eyes blazing with anger, his chiseled features twisted in a scowl.
Maddox, on the other side, bowed deeply, his voice trembling as soon as he realised who he'd yell at. "Lord Devon! My apologies! I had no idea it was you! Forgive me for the words I uttered, my Lord."
Devon's response was a nonchalant hum, but his eyes flashed, sending shivers down Maddox's spine.
Maddox bowed again before quickly turning to Leticia, "Come on, Kristen. Let's go." Unwilling to stay in front of this devil of a man, who was staring unblinkingly at the blonde beside him. Devon gestured at Leticia with his index finger in a 'come hither' motion. And knowing all hope was lost, she walked towards him sluggishly,her legs heavy with dread.
Maddox stared in surprise, "Kri..." He gulped. Does Devon know her? If so, he's dead.
Devon looked at her for a full minute; she looked terrified yet relieved, and also anxious and angry. He almost smirked. He should be the angry one here!
If it were before, he would have pulled her hair hard and screamed at her face while choking the hell out of her. But then, he could only bring up his hand to stroke her red cheek, his touch gentle, yet menacing. "Are you okay? Did he touch you?" Even though he was really mad at her, he first wanted to make sure she was okay.
Leticia, who wasn't expecting that, just stared, her mind racing. Isn't he supposed to punish her? Devon gave her cheek a slight pinch, his fingers digging into her soft skin. "Answer me."
"H... He... tr... tried..." Leticia stammered, now scared, her eyes darting around the darkness. Maybe he's planning on killing her later, because seriously, his eyes were terrifyingly bloodshot. He looks like a murderer for real.
"Okay. Get in the car." And Leticia did so before she could receive another pinch, her heart racing with fear.
Without turning to her, he said, "You might wanna look away." And he began to walk towards Maddox, who was already shaking on the spot, his eyes wide with terror. He knew he dared not run.
Leticia looked away and almost immediately heard a very screeching, agonizing scream, the sound echoing through the woods. Chills ran up her back as the door opened, and Devon sat beside her, his presence suffocating.
Her heart raced uncontrollably as she glanced at him in fear, his eyes fixed on her, his face a mask of anger. No doubt, he had splatters of blood on his handsome face, his dark hair mussed, his black shirt stained with... Blood!
Leticia's head rang; what did this devil do to Maddox? He... He couldn't have killed him, could he?
The drive to his place was uncomfortably silent, the only sound the soft hum of the engine and Leticia's ragged breathing. She felt even more scared. 'Is he finally going to kill me tonight?'
The car stopped, and Devon opened the door, pulling her out with him. He pulled her into the mansion, up the marble stairs, not stopping for a second.
"You're hurting me." She winced because his grip was tight. His fingers were almost digging into her skin. Seems like he's finally going to kill her.
*****
Luis entered the dining hall and met Quynn and Cecil with Seraphim, who were already eating. It was already late, and Devon should have been back with Leticia.
Cecil immediately grinned at Luis, "I haven't seen Devon and Leticia. Don't tell me they're busy right now." He winked naughtily.
Luis picked up his fork and threw it at the blond. Cecil swiftly waved it away, "Hey! Watch the face! I adore my face!"
Seraphim asked, "Where is Brother Devon?" Luis just shrugged and picked up his spoon.
Just then, Quynn's phone rang. He picked it up, "Sir, Lord Devon left a body in the middle of a secluded road. We've cleared everything up, but we just wanted to give reports."
"Who was it?"
"Minister Maddox Govan."
Quynn hummed, "Okay." And he disconnected. Quynn dropped the phone. So Devon killed someone. Why? Where is Leticia?
He stood up, "Oh, Quynn! What happened? Who did Devon kill? I heard that conversation! Hey! Hey! Don't you dare walk out on me, young man!" Cecil screamed, but Quynn had already left.
Seraphim rolled her eyes, "That impenetrable stone." Cecil grumbled.
Quynn was walking out of the dining hall when he saw Devon drag Leticia into a room. He was obviously angry. Quynn watched as Devon slammed the door. He knows Devon won't hurt her. He soon left the mansion.
He pulled her into a room and slammed the door before pushing her ahead, making her lose her balance and trip, her heart racing with fear. "How dare you leave like that?" He growled, his voice low and menacing, his dark red eyes blazing with anger.
Leticia clenched her jaws, not replying. He yelled, "Fucking answer me!!!"
She sprang up, "Why don't you tell me why you lied to me! The maze had no exit! Why didn't you tell me that earlier!? You got my hopes up only for me to find out you lied. You just made me waste my time! That maze had no exit."
A wicked smirk curled on his lips, "Took you long enough to realise."
"How could you be so heartless and wicked!? Devil!" she yelled back angrily, tears in her eyes as she gave a hard glare.
Devon clenched his jaws in anger. No one has ever raised their voice at him, but this girl... "Is that why you followed Ruolan, entered a stranger's car not knowing what he can do to you. Try to think, Leticia! " he snapped.
"This has nothing to do with thinking! I just wanna go home. I want to leave this hell hole. I want to go home!" She retorted, the tears now flowing down her face.
She looked down and continued to cry. This is ill luck. His eyes turned sharp at her last statement. He took steady steps towards her. His hand gripped her chin tightly, and he made her look up at him.
Maddox' blood has dried on his face, making him look like a killer... And he was.
His dark red eyes were even darker and angrier. He growled with finality and possessiveness, "Call me a devil or whatever you wish to. But know this: once you're in, there is no way out. You are trapped in the hands of this devil. You are mine."
Leticia bit her lower lip, tears rolling down her cheeks. He sounded so serious and final. 'You are mine.'
Devon took a step back, his face still cold and angry. He watched the tears fall, feeling an urge to wipe them off and comfort her, which was strange. He would never do that! "Go to your goddamned room and sleep!" he bellowed before storming out of the room.
Leticia slumped on the floor, crying uncontrollably. 'No way out!' kept ringing in her head. "I hate you, Devon. I hate you!" she sobbed.
*****
Devon was in his bath pool, enjoying his usual relaxation time. He hummed in satisfaction, remembering how he had twisted Maddox's dick and torn his head off his body. The scream was satisfying.
Leticia's teary face flashed into his head, and he groaned, the water turning hot immediately. She was so stubborn and hopeless, just wanting to go home. Too bad she was stuck with him; she belonged to him. He hummed again, the water returning to its freezing cold state.
***
Leticia woke up in a room that wasn't hers, feeling exhausted. The strenuous events of the previous day left an ache allover her body. She dragged herself to her own room, freshened up, and slumped back onto the bed.
She was tired from crying all night, thinking about her miserable life, and only managed to sleep that morning. She felt hungry but didn't want to see Devon, still mad at him.
So she lay on her bed and soon fell asleep again. Waking up at noon, she spent the rest of her day in her room, staring into space. She was still hungry but didn't go out, not wanting to see him. At night, she changed into her pajamas and slept off.
***
A growl woke Leticia up. She jolted awake and she sat up, and the growl came again. At first, she thought of the wolves and her heart jumped, but then she calmed down when her stomach growled once more.
She felt terribly hungry. Assuming it was midnight, she thought Devon would be asleep, so she got up and left the room in search of the kitchen.
She walked peacefully until she heard another growl. Initially, she thought it was her stomach again, but then she saw something that made her heart race and her legs tremble. What she saw next almost made her fall.
This was death staring her in the face.
Hope you guys are enjoying it? Feel free to comment and vote too. Support in any way you can. Happy Reading!!
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