I freeze and watch as Cesar holds the knife against Spencer’s throat. This wasn’t part of the plan. What the hell am I thinking? Revenge is the plan. Than why am I feeling like this?

“Thank you. Now let’s get started.” He pulls the knife away and backs up smirking. “I think I want to start with blondie here. More pain to the brunette.” He cuts the rope around Spencer’s wrists and sits her on the bed.

The stunned blonde’s eyes widen in realization and she frantically looks to Ashley. My breathing picks up as Cesar takes off his jacket.

“Wait!” I jump in front of Spencer. What the hell am I doing?

“What now, Carmen? Are we going to do this or what?” Move out of the way. It’s simple, left foot right foot. Move! This isn’t working. God damn it.

“I-I need closure first.” Closure, really? He gives me a confused stare.

“What for?” Good question. I’ll tell you that when I find out.

“You know for, for the last step. To make sure I’m better now.” Smooth Carmen. Daddy would be so proud.

“Alright, fine, whatever.” Cesar sits on the now empty chair and stares at me expectantly.

“Right, closure.” I cross my arms gun still firmly in hand. I try to hide the discomfort I feel with it being so close. I shift so I’m leaning against the dresser in the little room. The quiet is almost unbearable until Cesar stands.

“While you have your little ‘closure’ session I’ll be in the bathroom.” I wait for the door to close before moving to the chair he just occupied.

“Carmen,” I look up at Ashley. “This isn’t you.” Ha. What does know? I’m a fighter, a killer, a Mandez. It’s in my blood.

“How would you know?” I set the heavy metal on the stand and clasp my hands together.

“Your eyes,” My head snaps up to Spencer. “They tell a different story than what you say.” I divert my gaze suddenly feeling vulnerable looking into those piercing blue orbs.

“Before my uncle died he would always tell me how you were different. Talk about how you were going to make something of yourself. When I asked how he knew he always told me the same thing, ‘You can tell a lot of things by looking into someone’s eyes.’ He knew and I know Carmen, you are so much better than this.” Before I can answer the bathroom door swings open.