Venza


    father''s jurisdiction," Aiela reminded her.


    isn''t here," Venza said. "And when he''s not here-"


    <hr>


    Aiela had very helpfully stood at the side and provided color commentary while snickering at her misfortune.


    <hr>


    "If they refuse," Venza said.


    "Your optimism is cute," Aiela drawled. "Surely, they will cower in fear of a teenage girl with a giant stick."


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    <hr>


    Aiela


    <hr>


    Venza


    "What?" Aiela asked. "I didn''t make it that hot."


    "Who are you people?" Lauren asked, approaching her saviors from behind.


    <hr>


    Lauren nodded. "He was a complete sicko. He was trying to break me. Said he wouldn''t give me food until I begged him to- well, to do things to me."


    Lauren laughed. "Are you having him look after animals or something? That does sound like Tom."


    "Oh, relax," Aiela said, sounding amused. "I''m sure Herman can explain the situation to them."