Indebted - Piper Stone Page 0,10

put a coherent sentence together.

As he led me out of the courtroom, I was unable to drown out the nasty shouts and accusations, reporters trying desperately to get to me. Two hulking men stopped every one of them, shoving them out of our way before opening the passenger door of a vehicle.

The butterflies remained in my stomach as I was pushed inside a sleek black Mercedes, required to ride in back. I was shocked the man with the five-thousand-dollar suit didn’t have a chauffeur of his own. I studied him after one of the other men had closed the door, taking a moment to press his hands down the length of his straitlaced jacket. Jefferson was stiff, his hair neatly trimmed and his shoes perfectly polished.

He spoke briefly with the two men, easily ignoring the continued shouts.

I’d never felt so waiflike in my life in my well-worn blue jeans and scuffed boots. While I certainly hadn’t grown up poor, my father had insisted on living within our means, savoring the small things in life. I’d adhered to that way of life. My belongings weren’t worth much, but they meant a great deal to me.

He’d loved being an accountant, working closely with numbers. If only I’d asked him more questions.

I settled into the seat, trying to catch my breath.

Just the scent of the rich leather interior was intoxicating. I was obviously way out of my league wherever I was going. He said nothing as he climbed inside or as he glanced into the rearview mirror.

As he drove away from the courthouse facilities, I peered out the window, marveling at the incredible blue sky and white puffy clouds. Even the mountains in the distance were breathtaking. I still couldn’t believe I’d been framed. Nothing could have prepared me for the ugly betrayal. I wanted nothing more than to be angry, vengeful against someone I’d believed to be my friend, but I was far too exhausted from worry and fear.

Now at least I had a chance to right the wrong.

Why wasn’t Jefferson talking, sharing any information?

I stared out the back window at the horde of reporters, a lump remaining in my throat. I’d never be considered innocent, able to walk down the street of my own city without fear of reprimand.

Or worse.

“May I ask where you’re taking me?” My voice held an air of defiance, as if I had any right to be angry or even frustrated. I’d been freed from the bowels of hell, for God’s sake.

“To Mr. Masters’ estate. You will be well provided for once there. As long as you obey.”

I’d seen the word obedience in the body of the contract more than once. I’d read there were rules that must be followed, levels of training provided, although there’d been no details. There were so many questions in my mind as I attempted to think about what I’d skimmed on the contract.

“Can you tell me anything about what is expected? I would like to have a copy of the contract I signed.”

His dark eyes shifted to the rearview mirror once again, studying me. I could swear there was amusement in them. “While you had ample time to read over the contract, I’m certain Mr. Masters will explain his requirements when appropriate. I will make certain you have a copy for your records; however, the terms were agreed upon and no additional changes can be made. I had hoped your attorney would have explained that to you.”

Everything was so formal.

“It wasn’t like we had any real time to discuss much of anything,” I retorted, trying to bite back my nasty demeanor. He was just the messenger after all.

“While that is unfortunate, it doesn’t change the outcome. You should consider yourself lucky, Ms. Toro. Mr. Rivers’ family is very influential in this town. Another reason for you to remain obedient at all times. Mr. Masters is very precise with his decisions when he acquires property, so you will be cared for.”

Property. I folded my arms, turning away, my entire body shaking. That’s exactly what I was, a mysterious stranger’s property.

I leaned back against the headrest, closing my eyes, the lull of the motor creating a series of vibrations. A single tear trickled down my cheek and I bit my lip to keep from sobbing. If only I’d made better choices in friends. If only I hadn’t been coerced into going to the bar. If only I’d run away. If only...

The darkness was too tempting to resist.

“Ms. Toro. You should wake up now.”

The