Page 16 of Rockwell Academy: The Twist

“He had a glow up courtesy of yours truly and he’s so grateful nothing is too much trouble for him. He is attentive, generous and loyal. He is desperate to please me and what girl wouldn’t be happy with that?”

“I’m happy for you.” I smile. “It certainly surprised us all.”

“Me too,” Kennedy says softly. “Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all a one-way street. I kind of care for the guy too and am excited to learn a little more about him.”

She smiles with satisfaction.“It all worked out well for us, but I heard Autumn is probably going to twist.”

She has our full attention and lowers her voice. “River turned out to be a controlling bastard who took The Claiming ceremony as a written invitation to make her his slave. I don’t know about you girls, but have you seen how introverted she has become around us?”

I had noticed and my gaze connects with Siri, who appears worried.

“Tell us.”

Kennedy whispers, “He won’t let her out of his sight. He demands her full attention and she must do his laundry, make his bed and fetch what he needs. If he wants sex, she must be ready and if she displeases him, he–”

Contempt twists her expression. “He punishes her.”

“How?”

Summer’s eyes flash as Kennedy hisses, “Ties her up, locks her in his room, starves her, hurts her and emotionally abuses her.”

“Fuck!” I stare at her in horror. “I never knew.”

“Why would you? None of us did. She hid it well, and it was only when I called on her during the holiday that she told me. She was even considering transferring to another college to avoid him.”

“Then she must twist.” Summer snaps angrily and Kennedy shrugs despondently.

“I’m not sure she’ll have the strength for that. Imagine it. With both of them kneeling before the master of the chamber, it will take a huge amount of courage for her to go against him in front of witnesses. She’s scared shitless by him, and I doubt he would let it lie.”

“We’ll back her up.” Siri says fiercely and I nod.

“Of course we will. Tell her we’ll have her back and if River pushes it, I’ll tell Frankie and he can deal with this shit.”

Summer cocks her head to one side. “Frankie hates shit like that. He may be a dark soul, but he’s a respectful one and could be your best option at setting your friend free. If Frankie warns River off, he would be a fool to ignore the warning. Your friend will be safe. Tell her that.”

Kennedy smiles her gratitude. “I will. Thanks.”

Her phone vibrates and a soft smile lights her face.

“I’m needed at Willow Tree House.”

She makes to leave and then turns to Summer and Imogen.

“You know, we have a couple of rooms free at the house. If you like, I’ll put in a word with Principal Constable and you can move in there.”

“Really?”

Imogen’s face flushes with pleasure and Summer nods. “I appreciate it. What do you think, Imogen?”

“It would be fun.”

“And it would mean I’m free from being dragged to my brother’s house in the near future.”

Summer groans. “I understand how his mind works. He’ll find some excuse to bring me in line so he can keep a watch on me.”

Her eyes flash with determination. “I’m in. Where do I sign up?”

“Leave it with me.” Kennedy winks. “I’ll head over there now. You will love Willow Tree House. It’s home from home.”

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