That was all the crippled men needed to hear.
They scrambled, making pitiful noises as they dragged themselves up, carrying the broken ones among them.
Michael immediately went to the bound figures of Grace and Lily.
He carefully cut the ropes binding Nanny Grace first, then removed the thick gag from her mouth.
She gasped, sucking in huge gulps of air, tears streaming.
He then moved to his sister. He gently removed the gag.
Lily whimpered loudly.
Michael held her close, stroking her hair. “It’s okay, Lily. It’s over. No one will ever be able to hurt you again.”
Lily pulled back slightly, her eyes wide with lingering fear. “Brother, I don’t want to stay here anymore. Not in this house.”
“You won’t,” Michael assured her immediately. “I promise. I’m taking you somewhere safe, so
