Bloom

He really was taking her home. She watched the familiar streets flash by. He hadn't said a word since she got in the car, and for that, she was grateful. Still, the silence suffocated her, bringing back memories her father had paid therapists to help her overcome.

She silently hoped her secret guards were following her, even as she discreetly tapped the tiny button on her smartwatch that sent an emergency call to her dad. He would see the SOS call and come running back to save her immediately. The thought calmed her somewhat. She turned her neck ever so slightly, risking a glimpse at the red-haired man.

She flinched when she saw the lifeless mask was facing her. He had been watching her the whole time.

He stretched out his hand and patted her head. "You've grown up, little Bloom. When we last met, you were a sniveling brat, and now..." His gloved hand poked her cheek. "You don't even seem that afraid. Or have you gotten better at hiding your fear?"