Chapter 1: Opening Image
"Anyone going to bid for 15 million?"
I heard the crowd roar with multiple different numbers a few minutes before, but right now... it was quiet. One man after another said, "16 million!", "17 million!", "18 million!"
But once it was made to 20 million, the room was silent once again.
I could feel the tension, the anticipation. It was like everyone was holding their breath, waiting for something extraordinary to happen. And then, it did.
A voice, clear and confident, cut through the silence. "25 million."
The room gasped. Whispers echoed off the walls. I craned my neck to see who had spoken, but all I could make out were silhouettes against the harsh stage lights.
Then, another voice, equally assertive, chimed in. "Make that 25.5 million."
The room erupted into chatter. Fear engulfed me. Who was willing to spend that much money on some random virgin?
I mean, sure, I was attractive, or so I'd been told, but 25 million? That was insane! I couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh, which earned me a stern look from the auctioneer. I quickly zipped my lips, not wanting to draw any more attention to myself.
"Alright, gentlemen," the auctioneer began, his voice booming across the room. "We have ourselves a bidding war. Let's keep it civil, shall we?"
I watched as the two figures stood up, their faces finally illuminated by the stage lights.
"50 million." One of the figures said.
He was tall, imposing, with a sharp jawline and piercing golden-yellow eyes that seemed to bore into my soul even from a distance. He wore glasses that glinted under the lights, giving him an air of intellect and sophistication. His hair was neatly combed back, and he wore a crisp suit that screamed power and wealth. He was the epitome of control, his every movement calculated and precise. I felt a shiver run down my spine, a mix of fear and awe.
The other figure was a stark contrast.
He was shorter, his hair styled in a messy undercut, with a casual red turtleneck and black jeans. He exuded an air of nonchalance, his body language relaxed yet predatory. He smirked at the tall man, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Well, Merak, it seems you've found yourself quite the prize. But I'm afraid I can't let you have him without a fight."
Merak, the tall man, raised an eyebrow. "Ankoku, always the charmer." He shook the other man's hand, "How about we share? We are a team, remember?" Merak said, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it carried across the room, silencing the murmurs.
Ankoku chuckled, "Oh, I remember alright. But where's the fun in that?"
The auctioneer cleared his throat, "Gentlemen, as touching as this reunion is, we have an auction to attend to."
Merak turned to him, "My apologies. To show there are no hard feelings, I'll raise my offer to 55 million."
Ankoku mirrored him, "And I'll match it.
60 million."
The room held its breath, waiting for Merak's response. He looked at Ankoku, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "You know, Ankoku, you've always had a knack for pushing my buttons."
Ankoku grinned, "It's a gift."
Merak turned to the auctioneer, "70 million."
Ankoku didn't miss a beat, "75 million."
The auctioneer, trying to hide his excitement, asked, "Any final bids?"
Silence stretched across the room.
Merak whispered something in Ankoku's ear, which made him smile.
"Alright, Merak. You win this round. 80 million."
Merak nodded, a satisfied smirk on his face. "Sold to Mr. Merak for 80 million."
The room erupted into applause, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. At least I wouldn't be stuck with the creepy guy who kept licking his lips.
As Merak approached the stage, I couldn't help but feel a strange mix of fear and curiosity. There was something about him, an aura of power and intelligence that both intimidated and intrigued me.
As he climbed onto the stage, his shoes clicking against the wooden floor, I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my stomach. This was the man who had just bought me for 80 million dollars. I tried to stand tall, to meet his gaze, but my knees felt weak, and my heart pounded in my chest like a drum.
Merak stopped in front of my cage, his golden-yellow eyes scrutinizing me. I felt like a piece of meat being inspected at the market. I wanted to shrink back, to hide, but I forced myself to hold his gaze.
I wasn't some scared little puppy, despite what these circumstances might suggest. I was Ombre, and I had my pride.
Merak reached out, his fingers tracing the bars of my cage. They were long, elegant fingers, the nails perfectly manicured. I wondered if he played the piano, or perhaps the violin. Something classical, something refined. His touch was light, almost reverent, as if he were admiring a priceless artifact.
"You're not what I expected," he said, his voice low, almost thoughtful. "You're... quieter."
I raised an eyebrow, but kept quiet.
Merak stepped back, before grabbing Ankoku's hand. "Help me bring this pet into the car, will you? I still have to pay 80 million."
Ankoku nodded, licking his lips again, before pushing the car outside.
I trembled, shaking as I felt his gaze on me.
I was used to being stared at, but this was different. This was intense, invasive. It was like he was stripping me bare, layer by layer, until there was nothing left but my raw, exposed self.
Ankoku reached into his pocket, pulling out a set of car keys. He opened the door to his car, before pushing the cage in - with me still in it. Merak came by soon after, getting into the limo and sitting next to Ankoku. They kissed.
Right there, in front of me, in the backseat of the limo. I tried to look away, but I was trapped in the cage, my eyes drawn to the spectacle unfolding before me. Merak's hands cupped Ankoku's face, his thumbs brushing against his cheeks in a surprisingly tender gesture. Ankoku responded eagerly, his hands gripping Merak's shoulders, pulling him closer.
I cleared my throat loudly, hoping to disrupt their little make-out session. Merak pulled back, his golden-yellow eyes meeting mine. He didn't seem embarrassed or apologetic.
Instead, he wore a smug grin, as if he enjoyed having an audience. "Ombre, isn't it?" he asked, his voice smooth and silky. "I'm Merak, and this is Ankoku."
Ankoku waved lazily from the passenger seat, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Hey there, pretty thing."
I was curled into a ball now, not answering. I was scared. Well, who wouldn't be.
After not getting an answer, Merak signaled to the driver to head to their penthouse.
"P-penthouse!?" I exclaimed, not realizing I said my thoughts aloud.
I quickly covered my mouth, my eyes wide with embarrassment.
Merak chuckled, a sound that was surprisingly warm and genuine. "Yes, our penthouse. You'll be staying with us."
I gulped, trying to hide my nervousness. "For how long?"
Merak leaned back in his seat, his eyes never leaving mine. "Indefinitely."
I felt a chill run down my spine. Indefinitely? What did that even mean?
Ankoku, sensing my discomfort, leaned forward. "Relax, kid. We're not going to hurt you. We just want to...
get to know you better. Isn't that right, Merak?" Ankoku said, nudging Merak playfully.
Merak shot him a warning glance, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Ankoku, please. Let's not scare the poor boy."
I bristled at being called 'poor boy', but I bit my tongue. I didn't want to start off on the wrong foot with these two. Not when I was essentially their captive.
The rest of the ride was silent, the only sound the hum of the engine and the occasional honking of horns outside.
I huddled in the corner of the cage, my arms wrapped around my knees, trying to make myself as small as possible. I felt like a caged animal, which, I supposed, I technically was.
As we pulled up to a towering skyscraper, I craned my neck to look out the window. The building was a monolith of glass and steel, reflecting the city lights like a mirror. It was the kind of place you'd expect to find high-powered CEOs or influential politicians, not mafia bosses and their... acquisitions.
Merak noticed my awe-struck expression and offered a small smile.
"Impressive, isn't it? Welcome to your new home, Ombre."
Ankoku, ever the tease, leaned in close to the cage, his breath fogging up the metal bars. "Like what you see, pretty thing?"
I scowled at him, "I'm not a 'pretty thing'. I have a name."
Ankoku laughed, a deep, infectious sound that made his eyes crinkle at the corners. "Feisty too." He grabbed my chin, before caressing my chest from underneath my shirt.
"E-eep!" I yelped, jerking backwards, startled by Ankoku's sudden touch. My heart hammered in my chest, and I could feel my cheeks flushing with embarrassment and anger.
Ankoku just laughed, a sound that was equal parts infuriating and charming. "Feisty and ticklish. I like it."
Merak, who had been watching our exchange with mild amusement, finally intervened. "Ankoku, enough. Let's get him inside and settled."
Ankoku pouted, but he did as Merak asked, stepping back and allowing Merak to open the cage door.
I hesitated for a moment, not wanting to leave the relative safety of my cage, but Merak's firm grip on my arm left me no choice. He pulled me out, my rollerblades clattering against the limo floor.
"Easy there," Merak said, steadying me as I stumbled. "We wouldn't want you to hurt yourself before we've even had a chance to get to know you."
I glared at him, but he just smiled, unfazed by my hostility. "Come on," he said, leading me towards the elevator.
Ankoku followed closely behind, his eyes never leaving me. I could feel his gaze like a physical touch, making me acutely aware of every move I made. I tried to walk normally, but my legs felt like jelly, and I stumbled slightly. Merak caught me, his hand wrapping around my elbow in a firm, steady grip.
"Careful," he murmured, his voice low and soothing. "We don't want you falling and hurting yourself."
I bristled at his words, feeling a surge of indignation. "I'm not a child," I snapped.
Ankoku appeared from behind, slapping my ass. "Are you sure?" Ankoku taunted, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Because you sure look like one to me."
I gritted my teeth, biting back a retort. Now was not the time to antagonize them further. I needed to play this smart, figure out their game, and find a way out.
Merak pressed the button for the top floor, and the elevator doors slid shut with a soft ping. The three of us stood in silence as we ascended, the only sound the hum of the elevator machinery. I could feel the tension building, the air growing thick with unspoken words and underlying meanings.
I shifted uncomfortably, trying to put some distance between myself and Ankoku, but there was nowhere to go in the confined space of the elevator. I could feel his eyes on me, burning into my skin, making me acutely aware of every inch of my body.
Merak, seemingly oblivious to the charged atmosphere, checked his watch, a sleek, expensive-looking thing that probably cost more than I made in a year. "We should have dinner ready by the time we get upstairs," he said, his voice casual, as if we were simply three friends heading home after a long day.
"I hope you like Italian, Ombre."
I blinked, taken aback by the mundane topic. "Y-yes, I do," I stammered, surprised that they cared about my food preferences.
Ankoku smirked, leaning in close to my ear. "Good. Because Merak here makes a mean lasagna. It's almost as good as he is in bed."
I blushed furiously, turning my head away from Ankoku's invasive proximity. Merak shot him a warning look, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Ankoku, behave.
We don't want to scare the poor boy off before he's even had a chance to unpack," Merak admonished, though his tone was more indulgent than stern. The elevator dinged, signaling our arrival at the penthouse. The doors slid open, revealing a sprawling, opulent apartment that seemed to stretch on forever.
I stepped out, my rollerblades clattering on the polished marble floor. The penthouse was a symphony of modern architecture and luxurious decor, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city skyline.
I felt Ankoku touch my backside again.
"Watch your step, pretty thing," he said, his voice dripping with mock concern. I gritted my teeth, resisting the urge to snap back at him. Instead, I focused on taking in my surroundings, trying to commit every detail to memory. I might need to use this information later, when I made my escape.
Merak led us into a vast, open-plan living area. A grand piano sat in one corner, its black surface gleaming under the soft lighting. A massive, L-shaped couch dominated the center of the room, facing a wall-mounted flat-screen TV that was easily twice my size.
The kitchen was tucked away in one corner, separated from the living area by a sleek, polished countertop that served as a breakfast bar. It was fully equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, including a coffee maker that looked like it belonged in a professional café.
Merak gestured towards the couch, "Make yourself comfortable, Ombre. Dinner will be ready soon."
I hesitated for a moment before sinking into the plush cushions, feeling the soft fabric envelop me like a cloud. Ankoku flopped down beside me, his thigh pressing against mine.
I moved away from him, before I curled up like a kitten on the couch. Merak sat down on the other side of me, his presence commanding and reassuring. He picked up a remote control from the coffee table and pointed it at the TV. The screen flickered to life, displaying a news channel.
"Anything interesting happening in the world today?" Merak asked, his voice casual, as if we were simply three friends sharing a living room.
I shrugged, not really caring about the news. "Not really. Just the usual politics and crime."
Ankoku snorted, "Crime, huh?
You wouldn't believe the kind of 'crime' we're involved in, would you, Merak?" Let's not bore our guest with our... less savory activities."
I raised an eyebrow, curious despite myself. "Less savory activities? Like what?"
Ankoku leaned in, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Wouldn't you like to know, pretty thing?"
I rolled my eyes, "Stop calling me that."
Ankoku chuckled, "Feisty.
He leaned back, stretching his arms along the back of the couch, his hand landing dangerously close to my shoulder. "Alright, Ombre, let's play a game. Truth or Dare."
I eyed him warily, "I'm not really in the mood for games."
Merak, who had been quietly observing our exchange, spoke up. "Come now, Ombre. It's just a bit of fun. Besides, it might help you relax a little."
I hesitated, then sighed, "Fine. But I choose Truth."
Ankoku grinned, "Excellent choice. Have you ever had sex before?" Ankoku asked, his eyes gleaming with curiosity and something else - something darker, more predatory.
I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment, but I refused to let him see how much his question unsettled me. "That's none of your business," I replied, my voice steady despite the butterflies churning in my stomach.
Ankoku chuckled, a low, throaty sound that sent shivers down my spine. "Feisty and modest.
Merak, who had been watching our exchange with mild amusement, interjected. "Ankoku, let's not make our guest uncomfortable." Merak leaned into Ankoku's personal space, before making out with him.
I watched, wide-eyed, as their tongues danced together, their bodies pressed tightly against each other. I felt a strange sensation in my stomach, a mix of disgust and... something else. Something I didn't want to acknowledge.
Finally, they pulled apart, both of them breathing heavily. Merak turned to me, his golden-yellow eyes gleaming with amusement. "Now, Ombre, it's your turn. Truth or Dare?"
I swallowed hard, trying to push away the image of their kiss from my mind. "Truth."
Merak smiled, "Very well.
Tell us, Ombre, why were you at the auction?"
I hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much about myself. But I also knew that lying to them would likely end badly. So, I decided to stick as close to the truth as possible.
"I... I owed some people money. They sold me to the highest bidder to settle my debt."
Ankoku raised an eyebrow, "Money, huh? How much?"
I shifted uncomfortably, "Enough."
Merak leaned back, steepling his fingers beneath his chin. He hummed, before leaning into my personal space.
"And who exactly are these 'people' you owe money to?"
I tensed, not wanting to reveal too much about my past. "Just some... associates."
Ankoku smirked, "Associates, huh? Sounds like you've got quite the colorful history, Ombre."
I shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Everyone's got a past, right?"
Merak chuckled, "Indeed, they do. Alright, Ombre, it's your turn.
I thought for a moment before deciding, "Dare."
Ankoku's eyes lit up with mischief. He came closer, before pinning me onto Merak's lap.
"Kiss Merak," Ankoku dared, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. Kiss Merak? In front of Ankoku? The thought made me feel both terrified and strangely exhilarated. I glanced at Merak, who seemed equally surprised by Ankoku's dare. But he recovered quickly, a small smirk playing on his lips.
"Well, Ombre? Are you going to take the dare or not?" Merak challenged, his golden-yellow eyes holding mine captive.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I could do this.
"Oh," Ankoku said, "And hold it for ten minutes." He grinned wickedly, clearly enjoying my discomfort.
I hesitated, my eyes darting between Merak and Ankoku. Merak's expression was unreadable, his gaze steady and unwavering. Ankoku, on the other hand, wore a smug grin, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Taking a deep breath, I leaned in, pressing my lips softly against Merak's. It was meant to be a quick, chaste kiss, but Merak had other plans. He wrapped his hand around the back of my neck, pulling me closer, deepening the kiss.
His lips were soft yet demanding, his tongue exploring my mouth with a confidence that took me by surprise. I stiffened initially, caught off guard by the intensity of his kiss, but I soon found myself responding, my body melting into his.
Ankoku let out a low whistle, "Well, well, well. Look at that. Our little pet is quite the kisser."
Merak ignored him, his focus solely on me. His other hand snaked around my waist, pulling me flush against him. I could feel every inch of his body, hard and unyielding against mine.
His fingers tangled in my hair, his grip tight yet gentle, guiding me, controlling me. I felt a spark ignite within me, a heat that spread through my veins like wildfire. I kissed him back, my hands clutching at his shirt, my body pressing against his, seeking more, needing more.
Ankoku's voice cut through the haze, a low, amused drawl. "Ten minutes are up, lovebirds."
Merak pulled back, his golden-yellow eyes dark with desire. He licked his lips, a slow, deliberate motion that sent a shiver down my spine.
"You're quite the kisser, Ombre. I must admit, I didn't expect that."
I blushed, looking away from his intense gaze. "I-I didn't expect to enjoy it either," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.
Ankoku chuckled, "Well, isn't this cozy? Our little pet and his new masters, all lovey-dovey."
Merak shot him a warning look, "Ankoku, enough. Don't ruin the moment."
Ankoku held up his hands in surrender, but the smirk remained on his face. "Fine, fine.
I'll behave," Ankoku said, though his eyes twinkled with mischief. "But only because I'm hungry. Aren't you, Ombre?"
I nodded, my stomach growling at the mention of food. I hadn't eaten since the meager breakfast they'd given me at the auction house.
Merak stood up, adjusting his suit. "Let's eat, then. I've had the chef prepare something special for tonight."
Ankoku jumped up, offering me his hand. "Come on, pretty thing. Let's go stuff our faces."
I hesitated for a moment before taking his hand.
I felt a pang of unease, a reminder of where I was and who I was with. These weren't just any men; they were mafia bosses, criminals, and now, my owners.
Merak pulled out a chair for me, a gentlemanly gesture that seemed at odds with his reputation. "Please, sit," he said, his voice soft yet commanding. I did as I was told, folding myself into the chair, my hands resting nervously in my lap.
Ankoku took the seat next to me, his leg brushing against mine under the table. He smirked, leaning in close.
"So, Ombre, tell us about yourself. What do you like to do for fun?"
I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, not used to sharing personal details. "I-I don't know. Just normal stuff, I guess. Read, watch movies, listen to music."
Merak raised an eyebrow. "Normal stuff, huh? Care to elaborate?" It's just... regular things. Nothing exciting."
Ankoku chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Nothing exciting, huh?
Well, maybe we can spice things up for you," Ankoku said, his voice laced with innuendo. He reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, his fingers lingering on my cheek.
I blushed, pulling away slightly. "I'm not interested in whatever you're implying," I muttered, trying to sound more confident than I felt.
Merak chuckled, pouring himself a glass of wine. "Don't worry, Ombre. Ankoku is just teasing you. For now."
Ankoku leaned back in his chair, a smug grin on his face. He poured himself wine too, until he passed it to me.
"Here, drink up. It'll help you relax."
I hesitated, then took the glass, swirling the liquid around before taking a sip. It was rich and fruity, unlike anything I'd tasted before.
Ankoku watched me, his eyes gleaming with interest. "So, Ombre, what's your story? Why were you at the auction?"
I tensed, not wanting to delve into my past. "I already told you. I owed money."
Merak leaned forward, his golden-yellow eyes intent. "Yes, but to whom?
And why?" Merak pressed, his voice gentle yet insistent. He wasn't going to let me off the hook so easily.
I sighed, knowing I couldn't avoid the question forever. "It was a gambling debt. I got in over my head, and the people I owed money to... they weren't exactly understanding about my situation."
Ankoku leaned in, his eyes narrowing. "Who were they? Anyone we know?"
I shook my head, "No, I doubt you'd know them. They're small-time, mostly operate in the outskirts of the city."
Merak nodded, seeming satisfied with my response.
"Well, Ombre, consider your debt paid. You belong to us now, and we take care of our own."
I looked down at my plate, pushing the food around with my fork. "I appreciate that, but I still don't understand why you bought me. What do you want with me?"
Ankoku leaned back in his chair, a smug smile on his face. "Isn't it obvious, pretty thing? We want to have some fun with you."
I bristled at his words, my grip tightening on my fork. "Fun? What do you mean by fun?" "You mean you've never...?" he trailed off, letting the implication hang in the air.
I shook my head, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "No, I haven't. And I'm not sure I want to."
Merak chuckled, a low, soothing sound. "There's nothing to be afraid of, Ombre. It's just sex. And we promise to make it enjoyable for you."
I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, not liking where this conversation was headed. "I'm not some toy for you to play with," I snapped, my voice sharper than intended.
Merak chuckled, pulling me so close, I was near his lips.
"Of course not, Ombre. We won't force you into anything. But we do hope you'll come around to the idea eventually."
Ankoku leaned in, his breath hot on my ear. "We can be very persuasive, you know."
I shivered, pushing away from them both. "I said I'm not interested."
Merak sighed, sitting back in his chair. "Very well. We won't push the matter.
Ankoku pouted, but he didn't argue. Instead, he changed the subject.
"Tell us about your family, Ombre. Do they know where you are?"
I stiffened, the question catching me off guard. "My family? Why do you want to know about them?"
Merak's expression softened. "We're just curious. After all, you're part of our family now."
I scoffed, "Your family? I'm your property, remember?"
Ankoku's eyes flashed with annoyance, but Merak just smiled. "Semantics, Ombre. You're part of our organization now, which makes you family."
I took a deep breath, considering how much to share. "I... I don't know my family. They sold me away to an audition, hoping to get money out of my... body." He paused, taking a sip of his wine. "They didn't get much, though. Not nearly enough to cover my debt."
Ankoku's eyes narrowed, a calculating gleam in them. "How much did they get?"
I hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much. But I also knew that lying to them would likely have consequences. "Five thousand," I admitted.
Merak whistled, impressed. "That's not bad for a first-timer. Though I must say, I expected more from you, Ombre."
"Well, they did steal me from who bought me, in order to get more money." I continued, "And after the next audition, they got 30 million." I took a sip of my wine, trying to hide the bitterness in my voice.
Merak raised an eyebrow, "Thirty million? That's quite a sum. Who was the buyer?"
I shrugged, "I don't know. I never saw their face. They wore a mask."
Ankoku leaned in, intrigued, "A mask, huh? Sounds mysterious. Maybe we should look into this buyer. Could be useful to know who's interested in our merchandise."
Merak waved a dismissive hand, "Later, Ankoku."
"But then I got sent back to the audition, and then... well, I was bought by you guys..." I finished, curling into a ball, "How much did you buy me for?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
Merak and Ankoku exchanged a glance, a silent communication passing between them. Then, Merak turned to me, his golden-yellow eyes serious. "We bought you for Eighty-five million dollars, Ombre."
I gasped, shocked. "Eighty-five million? But... why?"
Ankoku smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Because we wanted you, pretty thing. Simple as that."
I shook my head, still struggling to comprehend the amount of money they'd spent on me. "But... why? I'm just a person.
I'm not worth that much," I protested, still reeling from the revelation.
Merak chuckled, "You underestimate your value, Ombre. To us, you're priceless." "Besides, we have our ways of ensuring a good return on investment."
I bristled at the implications, my hackles rising. "I'm not a piece of livestock, you know. I have feelings, thoughts, desires."
Merak raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on his lips. "You think wrong, Ombre. Every person before us bought you for one reason, because you are submissive and the perfect toy." Ankoku grinned, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
I bristled at the word 'toy', but I knew better than to argue. I needed to play this smart if I wanted to survive. "I see," I said instead, keeping my voice neutral. "We're not monsters, Ombre. We won't hurt you. But we do expect obedience."
I nodded, "I understand. I'll obey."
Ankoku chuckled, "Good boy. Now, let's get you settled in. You must be tired after today's... mishap."
I gasped when Ankoku pulled me to his lap, before titling my head up. He held out a fork with lasagna on it, "Eat." I opened my mouth, taking the bite. It was delicious, the flavors exploding in my mouth. I chewed slowly, savoring the taste.
Merak watched me, a small smile playing on his lips. "You like it?"
I nodded, swallowing the food. "It's amazing."
Ankoku chuckled, "See, I told you he'd like it."
After dinner, Merak led me to a large bedroom. The walls were painted a soft blue, and a king-sized bed dominated the center of the room.
Merak held me close to him, "You will be sleeping here with us."
Ankoku added, "And don't be shy if you find that we sleep with only boxers on." He winked at me, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I'll... I'll try to be comfortable," I stammered, suddenly feeling self-conscious about the arrangement.
Merak patted my back gently, "Don't worry, Ombre. We won't make you do anything you're not ready for. This is just a place for you to rest."
I nodded, appreciating his reassurance. "Thank you," I murmured, feeling a warmth spread through me at his kindness.
Despite their initial intimidating demeanor, there was something almost comforting about being around Merak and Ankoku. I pushed the thought aside, reminding myself that they were still dangerous men, and I was their prisoner.
Merak walked over to the dresser and pulled out a pair of pajamas. "Here, these should fit you. You can change in the bathroom over there," he said, gesturing towards a door on the far wall.
I took the clothes from him, our fingers brushing briefly. I felt a jolt at the contact, but I quickly pulled away, heading towards the bathroom.
As I closed the door behind me, I leaned against it, taking a deep breath. This was all so surreal. Just yesterday, I was locked in a cage, awaiting my fate. And now, here I was, in a luxurious penthouse, owned by two powerful men.
Shaking my head, I undressed, slipping into the pajamas Merak had given me. They were soft and comfortable, fitting me perfectly. I wondered if they had them made specifically for me. The thought sent a shiver down my spine. I pushed it aside, not wanting to dwell on the implications.
I folded my old clothes and exited, only to be met with squeals.
"Look how cute he looks!" Ankoku squealed, running up to me. "He's so adorable in these pajamas!" Ankoku exclaimed, reaching out to ruffle my hair. I ducked away, not liking the familiarity, but Merak intervened.
"Ankoku, leave him alone. He's not a pet," Merak chided, though there was a hint of amusement in his voice. Ankoku pouted, but he dropped his hand. No need to get testy," he muttered, flopping down on the bed. Merak turned to me, his golden-yellow eyes softening. "Why don't you get some sleep, Ombre?
It's been a long day," Merak suggested, gesturing towards the bed. I hesitated, eyeing the mattress warily. Sleeping in the same bed as two strangers, no matter how kind they seemed, was not something I was comfortable with. Merak seemed to sense my apprehension. "You can have the middle. We won't bother you," he assured me, his voice gentle yet firm. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what was to come. I climbed into bed, sandwiched between Merak and Ankoku.
My face flushed when I felt their naked bodies touching me, they were so warm... too warm. I woke up with a start, my heart pounding in my chest. I was drenched in sweat, my pajamas sticking to my skin. I blinked, trying to adjust my eyes to the darkness. Where was I? Memories of the previous day came rushing back - the auction, Merak and Ankoku, the penthouse. I was safe, for now.
I tried to move, but I was trapped. Trapped by arms and legs entwined with mine. I froze, realizing that I was sandwiched between Merak and Ankoku. Their bodies were pressed against mine, their breaths warm on my skin.
They were in their boxers. I could see their muscles and abs... and how hot they looked...
I gulped, trying to push away the sudden heat that was spreading through me. I wiggled, trying to create some distance between us, but Merak's arm tightened around my waist, pulling me closer.
"Where do you think you're going?" Merak's voice was low and husky, still heavy with sleep. His breath tickled my ear, sending shivers down my spine.
"I-I was just going to use the bathroom," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper.
Merak hummed, his thumb tracing circles on my stomach. "Mmm, alright. But be quick about it. I don't want you wandering off." I nodded, trying to ignore the way his touch sent electric shocks through me. I carefully extracted myself from their embrace, trying not to wake Ankoku. He was sprawled out on his stomach, his face buried in the pillow, snoring softly.
I tiptoed to the bathroom, closing the door softly behind me. I leaned against it, taking a deep breath. My heart was still racing, my body still tingling from Merak's touch.
I splashed some water on my face, trying to cool down. I caught my reflection in the mirror, my cheeks flushed, my eyes wide. I looked... different. There was a spark in my eyes, a heat in my cheeks that I hadn't seen before.
I shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I couldn't afford to get distracted, not now. Not with everything that was happening. I needed to stay focused, to keep my wits about me. I was in a dangerous situation, and I needed to be smart if I wanted to survive.
I looked to see a window in the bathroom, I could escape through there!
I started to climb up the sink, but the door burst open, revealing Merak standing in the doorway, his golden-yellow eyes flashing with anger.
"What do you think you're doing?" he demanded, his voice cold and hard. "I-I was just going to use the window to... to get some fresh air," I stammered, trying to come up with a believable excuse.
Merak raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. "Fresh air, huh? At three in the morning?" He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a low growl.
"You were going to run, weren't you?"
I swallowed hard, my heart pounding in my chest. I could lie, try to deny it, but something in Merak's eyes told me he wouldn't believe me. So, I decided to tell the truth, or at least part of it.
"I was scared," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "This is all so overwhelming, and I didn't know what to expect. I just... I panicked."
Merak's expression softened slightly, but his eyes remained stern. "Running isn't the answer, Ombre." He sighed, "And I hoped I wouldn't have had to punish you so soon..." Merak's voice trailed off, his gaze flicking to the window, then back to me. He sighed again, before gesturing towards me, "Come here." I hesitated, unsure of what he had planned. But seeing the determined look in his eyes, I knew better than to disobey. I slid off the sink, my feet landing softly on the cold tile floor. I approached him cautiously, my heart pounding in my chest.
Merak grabbed my wrist, pulling me closer. His grip was firm, but not painful. He led me back to the bedroom, where Ankoku was still fast asleep, snoring softly. Merak sat down on the edge of the bed, pulling me to stand between his legs.
His golden-yellow eyes bore into mine, serious and unyielding. "Ombre, running is not an option. You belong to us now, and we expect you to obey our rules."
I nodded, my throat dry. "I understand," I whispered, my voice barely audible.
Merak nodded back at me, before standing up and dragging me out of the bedroom to the basement. There, he grabbed handcuffs and cuffed me to one of the poles inside the basement.
"You will stay here without food and water for a week, if you try and escape you will be left here for two weeks, understand?" Merak said, his voice stern.
I nodded, my heart sinking. "Yes, I understand."
Merak looked at me for a moment longer, his gaze intense. Then, he turned and left, leaving me alone in the dimly lit basement. The door clicked shut behind him, the sound echoing in the silence. I was alone, handcuffed to a pole in the basement of a penthouse owned by two mafia bosses. I had no idea what awaited me, no idea if I would ever see the light of day again.