Page 23 of The Chamber

“Give me an example,” Kenneth demanded, his voice low and controlled, betraying none of his inner turmoil.

“Years ago,” Michael began, hesitating for a moment before continuing, “there was a young man named Samuel. He was full of life—a rising fashion designer passionate about his art. His fatal flaw was his striking physical beauty. Richard wanted that. He also saw Samuel’s potential as a designer and used that to lure him into his web, promising to help him achieve greatness.”

“Let me guess,” Kenneth interrupted. “He took control of Samuel and destroyed him.”

“Exactly,” Michael replied grimly. “He found Samuel’s weak spots and exploited them, breaking him down until he had nothing left but dependence on Richard. It took him years to escape, and he’s still haunted by the ghost of what he once was.”

Kenneth clenched his fists, anger flaring at the thought of what Richard had done to Samuel, Michael, and countless others, including himself. An unsettling feeling crept over him, the realization that he, too, was trapped by Richard’s twisted machinations.

Still—he couldn’t let go of one part of the Samuel story. “He did ultimately escape, though.”

“Yes. I don’t know how, but he did. Samuel’s story predates the Chamber of Endurance.”

“Does he, Richard, have a direct hold over you?” Kenneth asked bluntly.

“Unfortunately, yes,” Michael admitted, his shoulders sagging. “I owe him a debt that I can never repay, and he uses that to keep me under his thumb.”

The words hung in the air like a heavy fog, suffocating Kenneth’s last hope for a future with Michael. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Richard’s influence tainted everything they’d shared. According to Michael, if they remained involved, Richard would always hold some sway over them.

“Michael,” Kenneth said softly, “I don’t know how I can ever trust you again.”

“Neither do I,” Michael confessed, his eyes full of sorrow. “But believe me when I say that I am truly sorry.”

“Perhaps one day we can find a way to rebuild our trust,” Kenneth whispered, more to himself than to Michael. “But right now—I just don’t know.”

“I don’t expect you to make decisions right now. It’s too soon.” Michael echoed.

Tangible tension swirled around Kenneth and Michael. Neither spoke as they moved through the dimly lit room, the sound of their footsteps taking the place of unspoken words.

“Here,” Michael finally said, breaking the uncomfortable silence. He held out a neatly folded bundle to Kenneth, his eyes downcast. “I found you some clothes.”

Kenneth hesitated, feeling the weight of betrayal still fresh in his chest. Reluctantly, he reached out to take the clothes, unfolding them slowly. His fingers traced the familiar camouflage pattern, and he felt a pang of unease.

“Camouflage? Really?” Kenneth couldn’t hide the bitterness in his voice.

“It’s one of Richard’s favorites,” Michael said. “I know you’re not here to please him, but I don’t think there’s an alternative.”

“I guess I’ll have to make do.”

“Unfortunately, it’s all we have for now,” Michael’s voice was low. His shoulders slumped. “We can look for something else later if you’d like.”

“Unbelievable,” Kenneth muttered under his breath before turning away. He began to change into the uniform.

As Kenneth donned the outfit, he battled uncomfortable thoughts in his head. How could he have misjudged Michael so badly? Was there any hope left for their relationship, or did lies forever taint it?

“Michael—“Kenneth started, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Look, I know how you feel,” Michael said. “But we’ll find a way out of this mess. We just need to stay focused.”

“Focused on what? On trusting someone who’s betrayed me? Someone who lied to me from the start?” Kenneth snapped, and his anger suddenly boiled over. “How am I supposed to do that?”

“I—“Michael faltered, the hurt evident in his eyes. “I don’t know, but I promise I’m not lying anymore. I won’t let Richard control us, and I’m not his puppet—financial black hole or not.”

“You won’t?” Kenneth asked, the doubt heavy in his voice. “Can you honestly say you’re free of him?”

“Maybe not completely, or maybe I’m too hopeful,” Michael admitted. “But I’m trying, Kenneth. That has to count for something.”

“Does it?” Kenneth questioned.

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