Ezra's voice cracked through the room like a whip.
"Shelagh! That's enough!"
He squared his shoulders and addressed the officers, every word measured and absolute:
"I stake my entire career as my guarantee. Everything she's said is the raving of a sick mind. There is nothing between Denise and me. And we certainly did not release any convicts to harm her."
"If any of it turns out to be true, I will surrender everything willingly. I'll accept whatever punishment comes."
The officers exchanged a long look, then turned to me:
"Comrade Galloway, it would be best if you cooperated and went to the facility for treatment. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll recover."
"No!"
I screamed and thrashed, but Ezra's subordinates pinned me to the ground and dragged me into the transport vehicle.
Through the window, I saw Denise still nestled in Ezra's arms. She lifted her face just enough for me to catch it. A smile. Triumphant. Gloating.
Hatred surged from the pit of my stomach, wave after wave, relentless.
Ezra Mason. If you knew that the woman you just staked your entire future on sees you as nothing more than a stepping stone...
Would you still throw everything away for her so willingly?
……