Free BLAKE: Captive to the Dark by Alaska Angelini

before, but the need to show her my life. My place. Where I spent my time, and what I did. Somehow that seemed important. Was I trying to win her over? Make her want to choose my life? I winced. It sure felt like it. All for a woman I didn’t even know? That was extreme, even for me. Now, objects, yes. I knew immediately if I wanted something. Women had never satisfied me enough to pursue. I’d always held back and I didn’t like that. But Kaitlyn was different. She’d surpassed anything I’d ever wanted and shot right to the top of my priorities. What she held inside sank its hooks deep into my flesh, making me some sort of captive to her darkness. How was that possible? A part of me knew I was trapped in the enigma of Kaitlyn Summers, but that wasn’t the extent of my dilemma. It was quite possible that although she drew me in, the real me, inside, was the one instigating this.
    The elevator dinged and I got off. My mind was so focused on my thoughts that my head whipped back at the bright flash that shot in front of me. Camera crews were everywhere in the distance . The man who’d taken my picture was quickly pulled back by an officer. Shit. How’d I forget about this? Kaitlyn wasn’t just a random girl. She’d made mainstream media’s spotlight and they were out in droves. There was no way I could make it to the restaurant and back without getting hounded.
    “Mr. Morgan!” a reporter shouted in the distance. I turned and looked at the fast food place inside the hospital. Damn, I wasn’t really a fan of that one. But, hell, it did have its perks. I’d be back to Kaitlyn a lot faster. Plus, I’d get what I needed. A meal, albeit, a crappy one.
    A groan came from my mouth as I turned and walked inside. Two people stood in front of me. The older man seemed oblivious to everything in his surroundings. Grief was etched deep in his wrinkles as he stared into space , his salt and pepper hair disheveled. The T-shirt he wore had stains along the neckline and he looked like he’d hadn’t showered in a few days.
    The other was a woman, possibly in her forties. She was rather attractive. Blonde hair, layered down past her shoulders. The curves she held would have been enticing for most men. Yet, my mind found its way back to Kaitlyn. Would she stay a few more days if I asked her? Shit. I really shouldn’t. The plan had been perfect. Drop her off, make sure she’s okay. Move on. Fucking piece of cake.
    The woman walked away and it didn’t take the man long. Before I knew it, I was ordering three combo meals and heading back upstairs. Still, I fought with what I should do. One day at a time, I decided. Maybe after a few days I’d lose interest. Or better, accept reality. Kaitlyn would hate my bad side. She’d run at the first tiny glimpse, and if it got as far as me showing her, I wouldn’t let her leave. Hate would be all she’d have for me because I’d keep her, regardless. I’d make her want me as much as I wanted her.
    “That was fast.” Dominguez stood from the chair.
    “Here, got you something.” I took out his burger and fries, and handed him the drink from the cup holder.
    “Thanks, Morgan.”
    I gave him a nod and pushed open the door. Kaitlyn was sound asleep, already lying back and curled into the fetal position. My smile couldn’t have held anymore happiness. How long had I watched her sleep since I’d met her? Shit, more time than I’d spent with her being awake, probably.
    It only took a few steps forward before her eyes flew open and she gasped for air. The reaching out startled me. She looked ready to run. Damn nightmares. I’d already experienced her go through two of them on the plane. When she did sleep, it wasn’t for more than a few hours. Then, she was either screaming or silently looking to flee upon consciousness.
    “Hey.” I kept my voice soft and calm. That wild looked filled her eyes. She blinked a few times and the n settled on my face. “Good girl. Now, who’s