Best Friend’s Father’s Dark Lessons - Chapter 8: Chapter 8

"Hey Em, you're still coming over this weekend, right? Dad promised he'd make those Buffalo wings you love!"
Sophia Lowell slung her backpack over her shoulder as we left school on Friday, her usual bright smile in place.
"Sophia, I—"
The words caught in my throat. I wanted to spill everything—to beg for her help.
But the threat of Richard leaking those photos kept me frozen.
"What's up? You look like you wanna say something."
"N-no, it's nothing."
"So… you in or what?"
I forced a nod. "Yeah. I'll be there."
Just like before, Richard tried to shoo Sophia away the second we got home.
But this time, I wasn't letting it happen.
I stuck to her like glue, never more than a step behind.
Richard's patience wore thinner by the second, his glare turning murderous.
Then, out of nowhere, Sophia doubled over, clutching her stomach. "Ugh, I feel awful. Gotta hit the bathroom—fast."
I couldn't exactly follow her in, but going back to my room alone wasn't an option. So I hovered outside the door, shifting nervously.
One minute passed. Then two.
Was she sick? Or—
My hand was halfway up to knock when an iron grip clamped over my mouth from behind.
I barely had time to gasp before I was yanked off my feet, strong arms hauling me down the hall.
My heart jackhammered against my ribs. I thrashed, kicking at empty air, but it was useless.
Before I could even scream, the study door slammed shut behind us—followed by the unmistakable click of a lock.