Descent (Black Heart Romance presents Heaven & Hell)

It’s nearly time to start the march down the aisle, so I head out to the hallway to retrieve my
bouquet from the vase it’s being kept in, then we all make our way to the lovely area outside the
garden where the ceremony is set up.
Mentally, I know the ceremony is lovely, but I can’t feel it. I’ve spent the better part of the day
rushing around to help others and get myself ready, but now that the whole world has slowed down
for my best friend and her almost-husband to exchange their vows…
Well, mine is catching up with me.
A wave of desolation sweeps over me as I stand there tightly gripping the lush bouquet. A weight
falls upon my chest, making it harder and harder to draw a normal breath. To breathe at all without
drawing attention.
I try to shove down the smothering feeling of panic, but my mind sweeps me back to that dungeon
room he lured me into. I remember the feel of the cold wall pressed against my back, the shiver of
fear I felt looking up into his cool brown eyes—so intense, yet so controlled. The way he looked at
me, knowing what he was about to do to me. Not seeming to feel one bit ashamed of it.
Only a monster could do such a thing.
This morning I tried to tell myself it was over and I never needed to think about it—or him—
ever again. But I can’t shake the feeling that I haven’t escaped him yet. It’s like I can feel his dark
eyes on me even now.
Even knowing it’s all in my head, I want to run and hide.
Conscious of the wedding photographer snapping pictures, I try to keep my feelings off my face.
I didn’t tell Charity what happened last night. Didn’t want to tarnish her wedding day. I told
myself I’d tell her later, but I’m not sure I will. I’m not sure I’ll ever tell anybody.
The photographer turns and focuses on Charity with her bridal party behind her. I stand a little
taller and do my best to paste a serene smile on my face.
He moves forward, focusing on me.
I keep my eyes on Charity as the camera flashes.
Once he has snapped the photo, he shifts his focus to the woman behind me.
Another flash. My vision is still a little spotty from the last one.
The photographer moves past me.
My absent-minded gaze drifts to the guests. I know it’s crazy, but I still feel tense, and for my
own peace of mind, I need to give my brain solid evidence that—
My heart stops.
The breath is sucked from my lungs.