Ryker's mean smile grew bigger as he moved closer to Zeph. His fingers touched the bottom of her clothes, ready to lift them up. But Zeph grabbed the fabric tightly, holding it down.
"Don’t you think it's weird?" she asked, trying to sound confused and unsure. "Stripping in front of everyone?" Ryker's smile started to fade. He looked at Zeph suspiciously, then slowly turned his head to look at Ashral.
“Why is she questioning me?” His voice carried a dangerous edge, his amusement quickly fading. “She’s supposed to obey without hesitation.” His eyes narrowed. “Isn’t that what you were supposed to do?”
Ashral remained silent.
The lack of response only fueled Ryker’s fury. He snarled and hit Ashral hard. She hits the wall, gasping for air. Zeph felt a wave of fear. "Stop!" she shouted, un
