Chapter 20. Stolen Secret.

But the man merely chuckled, eyes hooded, "Try to guess, my boy."

I narrow my eyes at the tall man looming over my restrained body, trying my best not to show the fear building inside.

Though my heart races like a stampeding herd, I keep my expression steely. "I said who are you?" I ask again, my voice coming out stronger than intended.

He smiles, but it doesn't reach his dark eyes. "Now now, is that any way to greet an old friend?"

Old friend? I wrack my brain but come up blank.

Nothing about this man seems familiar. Before I can reply, the door slides open with a loud hiss.

Everett strides in, head held high, though I notice a subtle tremble in her stride.

"Father, a word if I may?" she says, her tone polite yet clipped.

Father? A spark of recognition lights in my mind, followed swiftly by a flare of rage. I strain against the rough ropes binding my wrists, my words tearing from my throat in a snarl.

"You're the Principal? You bastard!"

A flash of anger crosses his face, there