You're A Monster

[Ivan’s POV]

Was she dead? That was a damn good question. If she was here, then that was the most obvious answer. However, it was the one answer I absolutely refused to believe. There was no way in hell that she was dead. I wouldn’t fucking allow it.

"Ivan," Arissa whispered, "please answer my question."

Something about how her voice shook as her pleading eyes met mine broke my heart. Seeing her this vulnerable was still rare and unnerved me to the very core. Especially since there was no one to kill to make her feel better. This time, it was due to a situation that neither she nor I knew how to get out of.

Sucking in a breath, I prepared myself for what I was about to say. Even if she was considered dead at this point, she wouldn’t remain this way. If there was a way for me to escape, then there was a way for her to do the same.

"Do you trust me?" I asked, wanting to calm her before I answered.

"Unconditionally." She responded instantly.

"Then despite what I’m about to say, know that