The space inside the storage room was dark and cramped, with shelves pressing in. He shoved Elias against the wall, pinning him with his body. Elias's back hit the wood hard. He gasped, trying to push away, but Nathan caught his wrists, forcing them above his head.
"Calm down," Nathan whispered, face inches from Elias's. "I'm taking you home. You'll see. You'll be safe with me."
Elias shook his head, tears burning his eyes. "Let... go..."
Nathan leaned in, trying to kiss him. Elias turned his face away, heart pounding so hard it hurt. Nathan's lips grazed his cheek instead. Elias jerked, knee coming up. Nathan blocked it, then backhanded him—open palm across the face. The slap echoed in the small room.
Elias's head snapped to the side, cheek stinging. Stars burst behind his eyes. He sagged, legs giving out.
Nathan caught him, pulling him close. "I told you to stop. I don't want to hurt you, Elias."
