As promised... (Hopefully the next chapter won't be such a long time coming!!)


Chapter 7:

Edmund couldnt look at Cassiewouldnt let himself think about what her face must look like right now, how harsh his words had struck her. He had to focus on Jonathan. He had to keep Jonathan focused on him. He had to buy them time

You dont look so tough, Uncle Edmund. And you dont scare me! Jonathan shouted, swinging the gun around to press it hard against Edmunds forehead.

And you dont scare me, little nephew, Edmund continued quickly, ignoring Cassies sharp gasp of alarm when the cold metal of the gun had made contact with his skin. I thought you had something to prove? Proving that you are not weak, like me, wasnt it? A gun doesnt prove your strength little boy

Stop saying that! Stop calling me that! Jonathan shoved the gun harder against Edmunds skull. Im not a little boy anymore, uncle. You cant snuff me out in my crib. I could kill you. I could kill you! Do you get that? Jonathan screamed into Edmunds face.

Edmunds stare remained fixed and unblinking. Why dont you unchain me, and well see who the real man is? Edmund challenged through clenched teeth, all the while praying that Cassie would have the sense to remain silent and stay out of this, as commanded, for once.

Jonathan glared back, seething, his breathing heavy and eyes wild with adrenaline. Okay okay! Jonathan agreed, a sneer on his face transforming into an evil, mocking smile. You really think you can take me though, uncle? Look at yourself! Jonathan laughed pushing away from Edmund. Its not a fair fight, Eddie. You see, Ive already beaten you! Jonathan laughed again, pleased with his sick humour. Ha, ha, ha bring it on uncle! Jonathan taunted, beating at his chest.

Bring it on. Edmund agreed, glaring back with icy calm.

Eyes locked on each other, Jonathan began moving closer to Edmund.

No, Edmund, dont! Cassie cried out, finally finding her voice again.

Shut up! Jonathan and Edmund shouted in unison.

Jonathan eyed Edmund suspiciously, as if trying to work out Edmunds thoughts. You, over there! Jonathan decided, motioning Cassie towards the lone chair in the small room. I dont need both of you ganging up on mewouldnt be very sporting, eh Prince Edmund? Jonathan mocked in a put on English accent.

Whatever, lets get on with it boy, Edmund replied impatiently, trying desperately to keep his voice level and his fear for Cassie in check.

Sit down! Jon ordered Cassie again, pushing her into the chair and removing his belt to secure her arms behind her.

Oww! Cassie cringed as the belt tightened around her arms. Edmund still couldnt look at her. Please, just do as he says, he willed her silently.

You wont get away with this Jonathan, Cassie warned. Cmon, youve got nothing to prove here! What are you going to gain? Let us go and Ill make sure everyone goes easy on you. Please.

Please! Edmund snorted. By everyone, I can only assume she means ONeill. Still waiting for super-fed to ride to your rescue, Cassie? Edmund spat with as much bitterness as he could contrive. Gag her while youre at it, would you? I cant stand to listen to her pathetic, lying words anymore.

Edmund! Cassie managed to exclaim before Jonathan grabbed her by the hair and slapped a section of duct tape across her lips, reducing her next words to muffled anger.

Youre right, uncle, thats much better! Almost inconceivably, we agree on something. Jonathan stepped back to admire his handy work.

Quit stalling and free me here. Edmund rattled at his remaining shackle, redirecting Jonathans attention away from Cassie once again. He stole a glance at Cassie, tied up in the chair, her eyes burning with anger and more than a hint of desperation. Time for apologies later. At least now she was forced to stay out of it, he justified. Now she couldnt put herself in harms way. It was the best he could do to protect her at the moment. All he had to do now was keep Jonathan occupied for as long as his body could hold out. He just prayed it would be long enough. He would just have to make damn sure it was. There was no way in hell he was leaving Jonathan alone with Cassie! Cmon boy unless youve changed your mind and decided youre not man enough to take me on?

Jonathan glared back at Edmund. Edmund knew perfectly well that Jonathan realized he was deliberately goading him, but he was bettingprayingthat the boys temper and ego would get the better of him and he wouldnt be able to resist the challenge.

Ooooh, I am soooo looking forward to this, uncle! Jonathan reached over to the remaining lock, one hand still holding the gun levelled on Edmund. Gee, was Auntie Cassie trying to free you here Eddie, or lock you up forever? Jonathan taunted as he fingered the broken key still firmly stuck in the lock. An evil gleam in his eye, Jonathan stepped back and steadied the gun with both hands, still pointing it straight at Edmunds chest.

Then again, uncle, maybe this is all I need to prove my point, huh? You wanted me dead I want you dead. Its that simple. Thats really all there is to it

Edmunds eyes widened as Jonathans grin spread into a full, wicked smile and he squeezed down on the trigger of the gun.

I love you Cassie, Edmund whispered, as the gun shot rang out.