The Gilded Cage

I followed Enzo out of the office, my signature still burning on that contract like a brand on my soul. "Hey," Enzo said, glancing back at me as we walked down the endless hallway. "I know that was heavy back there, but-" "Heavy?" I cut him off "He threatened my sister. Forced me to sign away my entire life and you think heavy covers it?" Enzo's playful expression faltered. "Look, I get it. Gio can be... intense. But he's not going to actually hurt her if you-" "If I what? Obey like a good little prisoner?" I laughed bitterly, the sound echoing off the marble walls. "Don't patronize me, Enzo." He stopped walking, turning to face me fully. For once, the easy smile was completely gone. "You're right. Maybe he was wrong about dragging your sister into but in this world, there are no heroes, Arya. Only survivors." His voice dropped. "And right now, signing that contract is what keeps you and your sister alive." I wanted to scream and to claw at the walls until my fingers bled. Ins