"Found you, ptichka," he whispered. "Now it's time to play." For the first time, his eyes focused and not wavering, and I realised he was not blind. The realization hit me like a punch to the gut, making the fear pound even harder in my chest. This... this couldn't be possible. How could it be... My lips parted as I looked at him in utter disbelief and startling shock. "This-" His blade pressed against my neck harder and I winced taking in a shuddering breath. His eyes whirled in darkness, like a storm ready to strike me. "You make any sound," he warned in a low menacing growl, "I have plenty of ways to shut you up." I swallowed as he pressed the blade deeper, and I winced at the sting. He was towering over me, his body looming like a dark, menacing shadow. His knees were pinning my

