Chapter 166
~ Octavia ~
Clinton's words hit me like a sudden storm.
"What?" My eyes widened in disbelief. "You were kidnapped too?"
"Yes," he nodded solemnly.
"By Mr. Rice?" I clarified, still trying to process it.
"Yes."
I fell silent, the weight of his revelation sinking deep into my chest. My mind raced, replaying every moment, every danger we had faced. How had I not known?
"When did it happen?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"Before you got kidnapped," he replied quietly.
I sat up straighter, heart pounding. "Did he…hurt you?"
Clinton hesitated, his expression tightening. "No."
The lie was written all over his face. I could see the flicker in his eyes, the way his jaw clenched.
"Don't lie to me, Clinton. Tell me the truth," I pressed gently but firmly.
He exhaled slowly, shoulders slumping. "I was beaten up."
The confession landed heavily between us. I stared at him, pain twisting in my stomach.
