She recalled that Nathaniel’s shirt seemed a little too dark.


    Was it wet?


    Had he been sweating?


    Something was wrong.


    Lucinda went back and turned on the light.


    The man was curled up on the bed with his back to her.


    She strode to his bedside and confirmed that his cor was indeed wet.


    She sneered.


    “What night terrors gue your conscience and make you sweat so heavily in bed?”


    Nathaniel kept his eyes closed and did not answer.


    Lucinda was angry.


    “Stop pretending.


    I know you’re not asleep.


    Why are you sweating so much? What have you been doing?”


    Did she know?Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    Nathaniel frowned.


    He murmured softly, “It hurts…”


    “Hurt? I thought we’re done with these stupid little tricks.


    ”


    Lucinda nudged his back.


    “Ouch, it hurts!”


    Nathaniel screamed.


    He was sweating profusely.


    He seemed to be in a lot of pain.


    Standing behind Lucinda, Conor and Jose were aghast.


    During the day, they were outside listening to the sounds of the whip as it struck him again and again.


    They had trembled with fear.


    But Nathaniel endured it without making a sound.


    How could he be so brave in the daytime, and now cry out in pain?


    Was he feigning weakness in front of Lucinda?


    If so, he was a talented actor.


    Even the skills of the finest actors were not as convincing.