#Chapter 44: This Will Sting

The knife cuts a straight line across the backs of my arms, which I raised to protect my face. Blood immediately drips from the wound, but it is not deep. I’m fortunate. These women really do seem more intent on maiming me than killing me. “Don’t make this more difficult than it needs to be,” Madeline says, annoyance rising in her voice. “Sorry I’m not going to just stand here will you maim me,” I tell her. “You should. This is your lot. Accept it.” “No,” I say with defiance. Madeline scoffs at me and then turns to Gwen. “Do whatever you need to do, Gwen.” “Gladly,” Gwen replies. Her dark eyes fill with murderous intent and she shoots forward to strike once more, with more force this time. I raise my arms to block again, but the contact is never made. Instead, Bethany plows into the side of Gwen, catching her off balance. Together, the tumble into a heap on the floor. The knife slips from Gwen’s hand and skitters across the floor to Madeline’s feet. “Get off of me,”