Bargain

Dominique's eyes widened, in disbelief not sure if he heard Duke right. He hadn't expected Duke to agree so readily, especially to an offer like that.

Duke on the other hand, held a stone cold expression, his piercing blue eyes locked onto Dominique's as if daring him to back down.

A smile formed on Dominique's lips "Very well," He started. "It's good to have you comply with this, Duke. It'll make things easier, for both of us. I will do my best to hold up my end of the bargain."

Duke's expression remained unchanged, but a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes.

"I'm glad we understand each other, Dominique," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. The terms of our little agreement aren't quite settled yet. There's one more thing I require from you... a small token of your commitment, if you will." Duke's gaze seemed to bore into Dominique's very soul, as if searching for any sign of weakness or deception. 'Are you willing to pay the price, Dominique?'"

Dominique's smile faltered for a moment, before he regained his composure.

"'I'm listening," he said, his voice cautious.

Duke's gaze never wavered, his eyes seeming to bore deeper into Dominique's psyche.

" I want something that belongs to you,' Duke said, with a low tone."'Something precious. Something that will make you think twice before crossing me, after helping you finish your task."

A cold dread crept up Dominique's spine. He lets out a nervous chuckle trying to make light of What Duke had just said. "You have my word I won't double cross you, but since you are hesitant, tell me what is it that you want, Duke?' he asked, trying to keep his voice steady."

"I'll tell you after I help you with the task, but first, why does she have marks on her arms? I don't like the girls I have fun with like that."

Dominique turned to check out the lady and he noticed indeed there were marks on her. "Fucking Muji's" He cursed in a whispered tone. Dominique turner to Duke. "I assure you, those marks weren't from my abode. Would you like me to get another girl?"

"No. This will do." Duke was quick to interject.

"Very well then, I'll keep her fresh for you, you have my word," Dominique said with a reassuring smile. He gestured to the food on the table. "Eat up, I need to brief you on the tasks ahead."

Duke's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on the chains binding his hands. "You're forgetting something, Dominique. Why are these still on?" He rattled the chains, his voice laced with irritation.

"Precaution, my friend," Dominique replied, his tone nonchalant. "I'll take my leave now. I'll be back soon."

Duke's eyes darted to the girl, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice. "Will she stay?"

Dominique's laughter was low and mocking. "No, she's coming with me, you horny bastard. You'll get her once you complete the task."

Duke's face twisted in frustration. "If she's not staying to help feed me, how am I supposed to eat?"

Dominique's smile grew wider. "You're smart, Duke. You'll figure it out." With that, he turned and exited the room, the girl following closely behind, leaving Duke alone and chained.

Duke was left alone in the dimly lit room, the door closing behind Dominique and the girl with a small thud. He glared at the food, his stomach growling with hunger, but his mind seething with frustration and anger.

Duke remembered he could use his system given strength to break off the chain, but as he yanked at the chains, testing their strength, they only held firm around his wrist.

'Fucking bastard," he muttered, his voice low and venomous. He scanned the room, searching for any possible means of escape or a way to free himself. The walls were bare, the furniture sparse, and the only light came from a flickering overhead bulb that cast eerie shadows on the walls. Duke's eyes landed back on the food, and he realized he had no choice but to use his teeth to tear at the meat and bread. He growled in frustration, feeling like a wild animal, as he began to eat.

As he ate, his mind raced with thoughts of escape and revenge, his eyes never leaving the door, waiting for Dominique to return.