*Cat*

Despite my burning anger at the threats I’d overheard, I feigned ignorance, sitting on the couch in my little nest, downing my iced tea, and watching cartoons just like normal when Elio came down. I could see his stress from miles away but just like I pretended that everything was fine, and so did he.

Throughout the day, Elio had several men arriving for secret meetings up in his study. He always kissed the top of my head, making sure I had everything I ...