The sun shone through the open windows as it peaked over the treetops, indicating it was mid-morning. It was almost pure green outside as the view was of a small valley that was almost enclosed by mountains all around it. His home was well hidden and exceedingly difficult to get to by outsiders. Meaning it would be hard for me to escape and even if I did. I don't know where I am or where to go.

I looked down at my hands as they fiddle a bit. Waiting until a bowl of fruits, some I've never seen before and a glass of water was laid on a table before me. I didn't look up or say anything. I just sat there on one of the couches that were in the centre of this wide rectangle home. Two large tree trucks were sticking through on each side, almost acting as borders to the other areas that are combined in this space. On the left side was a simple kitchen, surprised that it was fictional. And on the right was an entertainment area. A TV, a computer of the latest from the last few years and a bookshelf that stretched itself almost from wall to wall with it being about my height. There was also a small room in the back corner which was where the bathroom was.

And all of this was attached to the mountainside and in front of the small cave which was the bedroom. There were stairs that led up and down, but I do not know where they led yet. It was a nice home. I was just expecting a cave but guess this was how he managed to adapt to the modern world.

Adrian slithered over to the other couch across from me and sat down. His tail circled mine before coming back to him. Now that we were away from other humans, he didn't need to hide anymore. Which only made me feel uncomfortable.

I resolved it a bit by eating the fruits. Some were nice and sweet, others I may get used to or not. But I ate in silence and still did not look at Adrian even though he was looking at me. I felt scared about what he would do if I looked. But he didn't say anything, yet.

I swallow the last bit of the fruit I was holding. Leaving its skin which I wasn't sure if it was edible, but I had enough. Back to sitting looking down at my hands.

"How long are you going to sit there and say nothing?" I slightly gasped at his question. So finally, the silence has been broken.

"What do you want me to say?" I asked back, "What can I say without being hurt?"

He only sighed heavily in response before moving and sitting next to me. I tilted my head away from him. My body tensed as he slipped an arm around and pulled me close to him, making me lean on him. Thank god, he was wearing a t-shirt.

"I have no intention of hurting you." He said, "I promise you; you are safe." Was that the truth or a lie? I don't think I would be safe considering what would be happening soon. Though I wonder why he had not put me under hypnosis yet. Wasn't what Nathan said?

"Then what about that snake?" I asked as my foot clenched, still remembering the pain. "The one you sent to bite me?"

Before I knew it, I found myself flipped onto my back. Laying not on the couch but the thickest parts of his coils that swiftly came. However, they began to tangle me. Looping one arm, holding down one leg and then the end part of the tail clutching around my chest. Panic began to set in. Adrian had the leg that was bitten on his lap and gently, I watched him remove the bandage around it.

Once removed, it revealed its results. The swollen has gone down but was still a tad bit red around where the bite marks were. I say 'marks', as there were two. One small and the other large.

"Mojave Green rattlesnake." He said as he analysed my leg. "My bother made fast work to reduce the damage. But it will be gone by tomorrow."

"Of course, I got lucky, I..."

"I never sent that snake." I stopped and stared at him in disbelief. Now I was really confused but should I believe him? I didn't say anything. I don't think it would change anything. The coils around my arm and leg loosen, allowing me to pull them back.

Adrian started to crawl until he was hovering over me. He reached out and cupped my cheek. There were that familiar warmth and comfort from all those times he did the same thing and I enjoyed it. And a part of me wanted to succumb to it.

"So, what happens now?" I asked. "What are you going to do to me?"

"Only time will tell, Sophia." He answered, but then I felt a bit of a force with his hand as he made me look at him. "But you will not be leaving this place. Do you understand?"

My eyes widen with his tone. He sounded serious and threatening when he spoke slowly. Tears of fear started building up. He wouldn't even give me a straight answer. Leaving me in the dark. I don't understand. What does he want?

Suddenly, I was lifted only to be placed back down onto Adrian's chest as he replaced himself in my spot. He held me in his arms like we used to with a hand stroking my head. His tail coiled around us, bringing that sense of security. At that point, I broke down crying, just like last night.

"I promise you, Sophia." Adrian spoke softly, "I will take care of you."