My wrists were braceleted behind the small of my back as I preceded Victor into the living room. Something was wrong, I could sense it, and I knew Donna well enough that braceleting me like this meant she thought there was a chance I’d react badly to whatever it might be. I felt a tightness in my chest and tried to fight back against a rising sense of panic.
“Stay calm,” said Victor as he touched my upper arm.
That’s easy for you to say. You haven’t been braceleted because your Mistress fears how you might react, I thought to myself.
“And don’t give us any reason to have to punish you, Cassie.” Victor motioned for me to kneel on the tiles, which I did. “Just take a few deep breaths. You’re a good girl.” He ruffled my hair in a way that was supposed to reassure me.