Shaun’s legs had also been tied, but he had somehow managed to break free from them. We could see where the rope had dug deep into his flesh.
Still dazed and confused, he croaked weakly, “Water…”
Joseph quickly placed him on the couch and untied the ropes around his wrist. To appease my feelings of guilt, I seized the opportunity to pour him a glass of water.
Recognizing Shaun, Audrey walked over to the couch in horror and started sobbing. Soon, her face was damp with tears. “Shaun… Shaun… Don’t die…”
“It’s okay. Shaun is going to be fine. Be a good girl now. Don’t cry…” Joseph said soothingly. After placing Shaun on the couch, he hurried off to call the paramedics. I pulled Shaun gently into my arms and held the glass of water to his lips. There was no time for me to comfort Audrey.
Unable to stand Audrey’s crying any longer, Emery gave a resigned sigh. She placed her hands on Audrey’s shoulders and spun her around, forcing the girl to meet her gaze. Wagging a finger at Audrey, Emery said, “Audrey, I’m only going to say this once, so listen carefully. The louder you cry, the more painful it is for Shaun. Do you want to see him die from the pain? If you do, then keep on crying. The louder you cry, the faster he dies. Go on then, keep crying!”
The mention of death frightened Audrey so much that she quickly clasped a hand over her mouth, not daring to make another noise.
Emery’s method of dealing with the matter is questionable but effective. If it had been me, I wouldn’t have had the heart to scare a child just to shut them up. I suppose it does take a person of action to get things done quickly.
Emery seemed to read my mind. She straightened up and shrugged. “See that? Certain teaching methods work on both genders.”
I shook my head. Poor Xavier. How many of Emery’s threats and scares has he had to endure these past six years? It’s a good thing boys are tough. If it had been a girl, she would’ve had a rough time.
Nonetheless, it was not the right time to be making jokes, so I did not answer Emery.
After about ten minutes, Shaun finally slowly opened his eyes and looked around weakly.
It was different from the first time I met him. Now, I could see the desire to live blazing in his eyes.
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