Page 17 of UnTrained: Volume One
Just like the last place.
The sandwich looks plain—maybe turkey and cheese—but my stomach growls at the sight of it.
I reach for the sandwich, then hesitate, looking at Aiden. Even this simple act requires permission.
"Go ahead," he says, his voice gentler than before.
I take a small bite, savoring the taste of real food. It's nothing special, but after months of bland nutrition bars and protein shakes, it tastes like heaven.
"When you're done eating, I'd like to talk," Aiden says, watching me closely.
I nod, focusing on taking small, measured bites. I've learned that eating too quickly after being deprived can make you sick. The last thing I want is to vomit in front of him.
He waits patiently as I work my way through the food, eating every bite.
Once I drain the last of the water, he stands, lifting the tray. He opens the door and sets the tray in the hallway, then returns to where he was sitting.
"Do you remember anything about your life before?" he asks, settling back in the chair. His posture is relaxed, but I can feel the intensity of his focus on me.
Before. The word hangs in the air like smoke. There was a before, wasn't there? Fragments float through my mind—a coffee shop, maybe. The smell of vanilla candles. A cat with green eyes. But they feel like someone else's memories, faded photographs left too long in sunlight.
"I think so," I whisper, clutching the sheet tighter. "Sometimes I remember things, but they don't feel real anymore."
Aiden leans forward, his elbows resting on his knees. The movement brings him closer, and I fight the urge to shrink back against the wall behind the bed.
"What things do you remember?" he asks.
Memories flit through my mind, one after the other, but just as quickly, warning bells ring.
I shake my head. “I’m 127. That’s all I know, Sir.”
My heart sinks as disappointment clouds his features.
There’s a part of me that wants to tell him everything. But another part, a wiser part, knows that it’s not safe to trust anyone.
Aiden studies me. “I’m sure there’s more that you know.”
There is, so much more. But I’ve pushed those memories down deep.
I shake my head. “No, Sir. I’m 127. I’m happy to serve you however you desire.”
“Fuck,” he says, catching me off guard as he swears under his breath. The word is just loud enough for me to make out.
I swallow hard, hoping I haven’t angered him.
He stands, crossing his arms over his chest. “For the record, baby, I don’t want to do it this way. One more chance. Tell me your name.”
A frisson of fear goes through me. “One twenty-seven,” I say, focusing on my training.
Aiden blows out a long breath. “Okay, baby. Let’s go.”
12
LANA
At his command, I rise from the bed, not even caring that I’m naked. I’m used to it at this point.
“Follow me.”
