Turning my head causes a ripple of searing agony. I groan as I raise my hand to the large lump on my temple. The throbbing is soothed by a cool damp sensation placed on my forehead, and I let out a sigh of relief. Opening my eyes, the room I'm in an identical room to the one we found Grey in. Only neither of them are here.

My breath falters as I focus on Teddy, who is leaning over me, adjusting the wet cloth on my head. I don't pull away because I'm not ready to give up the relief of the cold, wet cloth. Instead, I close my eyes and try to gather my thoughts, which are scattered around my brain.

"You've got a nasty bump on your head." Teddy smiles, but it's strained. Gone is the carefree Teddy I knew.

'That's what happens when you get attacked," I say quietly.

"You shot a Superior Official," Teddy sighs.

"And I'd do it again if I was given the chance," I snap.

Teddy shakes his head. He takes the cool cloth away from my head, dips it into a bowl of water by his feet, and reapplies it. "They won't hurt you if you cooperate. Tell them what they need to know, do what they ask, and they won't hurt you."

"You really believe them?" I say, sitting up. The movement causes a jolt of pain and I retch loudly. Pressing my hands against my mouth, I swallow the bile. "The State are liars, Teddy."

Teddy shakes his head. "They want what's best for us. A contented and happy life for good people. You just need to follow the rules-"

"They know about the illegal establishments. All those places of immorality are allowed to continue under The State. They know everyplace you go, every movement because they have inserted trackers in your Birth Brand. All those people who don't follow the rules get given a choice; go to a labour camp or join an establishment who will use you as they see fit, and do you know who gives them that choice? Officials."

A door opens and an Official paces towards me. "That's enough now."

The Official attempts to sound calm but it has a distinct clip to it. Is it because Teddy doesn't know? Is he still unaware of all the secrets The State are keeping?

"Teddy, listen to me. Everyone who has a Birth Brand is trackable. They've updated them so if you try to take it out it shocks you and releases poison into your bloodstream."

"Cady, you're confused," Teddy says, except his voice lacks conviction.

"Go now," The Official barks at Teddy and grabs him by the shoulder.

"I'm not confused, Teddy. Think about it. They always know where everyone is and the only reason they haven't caught me is because I have no Birth Brand-"

"Stop." The Official slaps me across the face then pushes Teddy towards the door.

I stumble to standing. "We delivered to all those places The State keep telling you are nearly eradicated. They are still very much present and it's because they allow them to exist. I don't know why. What I'm saying is true. All the corrupt and scandalous activities The State are meant to be against are happening in every city and town with their consent. They sit back while people pay for an intimate hour of pleasure, or watch people beat each other senseless-"

"Cady, this month alone they've discovered ten immoral establishments and closed them down," Teddy says, backing out of the room as the Official pushes him.

"Ten out of thousands is nothing," I shout.

The door slams behind them and I'm left alone in the empty room with only a mattress in the corner and a large mirror reflecting my dishevelled state. Why doesn't Teddy believe me? Why is he so blinded by The States lies?

I scream loudly in frustration. The weight of betrayal and fear press down on. I drop to my knees as my ragged breathing makes me feel light-headed. Is Teddy really going to leave me here? He already has.

Author's note
This chapter and the next few are going to be pretty short. I think it works better as separate chapters rather than all together xx