Truth or Lies? by A. Gomez (books to get back into reading TXT) 📕

“Yes, sir. Perhaps one day I’ll be able to see it. Also, if you have the chance today, you must look up the music and listen to it. You’ll love it.”

He was staring at me, his expression unreadable. Was he confused? Was I sounding too bossy? Crap! The last thing I wanted was to come across as bossy. I had to work on being more submissive with him. It could possibly win me points and my stay here could be extended if he ended up appreciating my company. I needed all the help I could get so I could stay with Betty longer.

Chang looked at his watch and let out a loud exhale. “The time has gotten away from me, Dr. Langley. I suppose this happens when you’re having fun.”

He was having fun? I smiled meekly and just nodded. What should I say? I wanted to say what I was really thinking… You’re a crazy sociopath that deserves to be locked up!

He rose from his seat. I got up as well. “Dr. Langley, it would make me very happy if you were to have dinner with me tonight. I still haven’t answered your question regarding my house. I would very much like to tell you about that.”

Was he asking me or telling me? Could I say no thank you? It took me a few seconds to process his question. Statement? He was gazing at me waiting for my response.

“Of course. I would be glad to have dinner with you and continue our stimulating conversation,” I lied, trying to sound as convincing as possible.

He smiled broadly, nodded and strode off in the direction of his office. I was left alone. I looked around the room for Debbie or An and there was no sign of them. I decided to walk toward the room where I thought I saw a cell phone jammer. Maybe I’d be able to find more on my way there. I ambled nonchalantly to an end table, spotting the rectangular black box with a few short antennas poking out of it. I picked it up and turned it around and upside down trying to find and off switch.

“What do you think you’re doing, Isabel?” Debbie startled me, causing me to jump.

“Oh, hi, Debbie. I was just wondering what kind of sculpture or ceramic art piece this is,” I lied, proud of myself for being able to think on my feet so quickly and effortlessly. “Would you happen to know who the artist is and what it’s called?” I was still turning it around and every which way looking for a switch.

“Never mind what that is,” she snapped. “Put it down and leave it alone. Those aren’t any kind of artwork.”

I did as I was told and folded my hands in front of me. “Okay then, I’m going to head up and fetch Betty now so we can finish our chores before I have dinner with Mr. Chang.”

She pursed her lips. “That’s fine. I’ll come find you when it’s time.”

She watched me as I left the great room and headed to the stairs. Probably making sure I didn’t stop anywhere else to inspect another black box.

When I got to Caroline’s room, I found Betty making flowers out of colorful duct tape. Betty quickly jumped up and ran to me, practically knocking me over. I wrapped my arms around her, thankful to see she was fine.

“Isabel Grace.” I could hear relief in her voice. “I’m so glad you’re back. I was praying the whole time and you came back.”

“Yeah, I’m glad you’re back too,” Caroline added. “I was getting worried. I thought it was just for lunch and you took way longer than I thought. I told Lilly to step in and help once it’s time for my appointments.”

“I’m sorry, Caroline. I don’t know why it took so long. He just kept going on about all this art he has around the mansion.” I walked over to her and held her. “And I’m so sorry you have to go to these appointments.” The word “appointment” was such an inappropriate euphemism. It was just absolutely the wrong word to use in the situation. There was nothing nice or professional about what went on there. I hated that everyone used that word, but I supposed it was better for everyone’s psyche in the end.

“I only have two later this afternoon.” She let go of me and stepped back, looking at the floor. Her hands knotted. “I’d rather die, Isabel Grace, than be here right now. So, whatever you have planned as far as getting out of here, count me in. I’ll do whatever you need. I’m not afraid. The only thing they can do to me now is kill me and I’m okay with that.”

“Caroline! Stop with that kind of talk!” I admonished. “No one is getting killed. Besides, I don’t know why y’all think I’m planning anything or am even able to do anything, for that matter. I’m just one person and Chang has big, burly Asian men that are willing to kill for him or beat us.” I clasped my hands together and pressed my thumbs against my forehead, closing my eyes. “Betty and I have to finish our chores before dinner time. We can talk more later tonight.”

Betty and I finished washing and folding everything in record time. I was ironing the last of the dresses and a couple of blouses. I was never good at ironing but once I’d finished and inspected my work, I thought I did fairly well, considering the circumstances.

We saw Caroline and three other girls leave with one of Chang’s big, burly men for her first appointment. My stomach did flip-flops as they passed us. I watched them leave and a feeling of utter powerlessness came over me. I swallowed hard, forcing the lump from my throat. Caroline was right. I