Merrick had actually surprised him this time. His unexpected siege on Castle Rock had killed six of his men, but the attempt had been a refreshing change. It meant Merrick was still sulking and nursing his wound—still interested in playing their game.From the window he had a perfect view of his private lagoon. That is, if he was inclined to use the high-powered telescope that stood within reach as he often liked to do. Today he wasn't taking pleasure in the azure water lapping at his billion-dollar motor yacht he'd appropriately named, the Pearl. No, today his pleasure was a bit more carnal. Today he was focused on the entertainment going on below the window in the private garden where two of his men were taking turns throwing punches at his latest prisoner.A sturdy wooden post stood in the middle of the garden specifically for such amusing activities. The man had been tied to it to keep him upright. A lot of blood had been spilled so far, but the prisoner no longer objected to the force of the punches.
