Page 67 of Locked Souls

Grandmother sighs and holds Charity closer to her, gently rocking her as we continue down deeper into the tunnels.

“You never should have had obstacles to overcome. I wanted a different kind of life for you.”

“I love my life, Grandmother. I have four men that adore me, and three beautiful children.”

My heart aches as I think about the one who's missing, but I know deep down that I will find her someday.

The walls are lit by sconces, and I'm a little surprised that my grandmother knows the way to the ceremony room.

Jacob and some of the pledges have turned it into a safe haven. There are beds and toys for the kids, as well as baby gates set around the water.

Sister Anna places Rome into a play yard, and he runs right over to some toy trucks, making a “vroom” sound as he plays with them.

Eli wiggles in my arms, and I put him in there to play too.

I face my grandmother and take my daughter from her while we continue our conversation.

“If you had saved me then, I never would have known the true evil that lies hidden in the shadows. It may have been a blessing, but then I wouldn't be able to advocate for the ones trapped in the darkness,” I mutter, thinking about the last words my dad, Snake, said to me.

Hope. I must find hope.

He also wished things were different, but as much as I've been broken, hurt, and beaten, I don't.

I never would have had my Angel, or met my guys, and known what true, undeniable love is.

“I know, dear, and that is what makes you so much stronger than me. I was weak and fell into temptation… I was an Eve, just like your mother and you. I didn't want this life for you, Chastity.”

My lips purse, and I can't find the words to reply.

Her? My God fearing, habit wearing, redemption whipping grandmother was an Eve?

“Oh please, child, I was young once too. I had male callers that wanted my attention.”

Okay, the shock is gone, now I feel a little ill.

“Why didn't you ever tell me? When I first moved here, I was marked as an Eve.”

“The Society has rules that we all must abide by, Chastity. Even though your brother is the leader, and your men are Elders, there is always a higher power watching.”

I nod, because I know she's right. Some days, I wonder if The Society is a part of Isabella's trafficking ring.

“Can you tell me more about the higher power?”

Grandmother shakes her head, then takes a seat on one of the chairs. I follow her but my phone rings, cutting off our conversation.

I don't know the number, and they hang up before I can hit accept, or maybe there's a problem with the signal.

I hand Charity to Sister Anna and wave to the door.

“I'll be right back. It might be the guys,” I mutter, and grandmother nods. She seems lost in the memories of her past.

Walking along the tunnels, I find Jacob's office and listen to the voicemail that's now waiting for me.

My blood runs cold and my heart stops at the voice screaming for me to help her.

“Angel.”

JACOB