Chapter-9
I didn't realize when Theo and Caleb had come, too.
"You've finally come?"
Yes. Yes, I had.
"How are you?"
She didn't say anything. She smiled. Her eyes were sad.
"You know her?" Theo asked.
"She's my childhood friend, Nina. We used to live in Brasston. She was my neighbor. She was my best friend." My eyes locked into hers.
"Sy, do you know where we are? Do you know something we don't?"
I looked at Theo; he seemed confused and upset. Does he think I know about all that's happening? Is he second-guessing the trust he has in me? Did he not like me calling Nina my best friend?
I didn't know how to explain it to him. I wasn't clear on anything. I knew Nina, and I told him that.
"I know her."
Theo's gaze shifted from me to her.
"Where are we? Why were we held as hostages? Why is that man referring to Sylvester as the master? Who's Esmerelda?"
Theo's voice became louder with each question. I looked at Astor; he was still sitting in the van, looking over at us. What if we run? Isn't he worried about us getting off the vehicle?
"All I can tell you is it's his hearing today. And he needs to prove to them he hasn't committed treason. He has to prove his innocence."
My heart started racing.
"What treason? He has never been to this place before. How on Earth could he be a traitor?"
"I know."
Why aren't her words coherent? My head started pounding.
"Don't worry. Madam Esmerelda wouldn't let you lose the trial."
How am I supposed to trust someone I've never met? But I wouldn't have believed it if someone had told me all this would happen to us. And I know I can trust Nina.
Theo looked at me. He leaned towards me and whispered, "Let's run."
"There's no way you'd make it past the security."
Theo was shocked that Nina heard him.
"She's good at hearing. Like really good."
Theo rolled his eyes and started walking towards the van. Caleb followed him. I could hear him ask Theo softly, "What do you think will happen to us?"
Theo responded, "No idea, man."
"Good luck, Sylvester."
I didn't want to leave, but I knew it was goodbye for now.