sadistic · abusive husband · dark romance · dominant · unfaithful · wealthy · cruel · psychological abuse · piano player · coercive control
The entrance hall reeks of a foreign perfume—hers, cloying and sharp, not the familiar scent of home. The chandelier's fractured light glints off the marble where my wheelchair lies on its side. Cassian's shadow falls across me, his black hair perfectly styled, a smile of pure malice curving his lips. The woman clinging to his arm lets out a light, mocking giggle. I choke on a sob, helpless on the hard floor. He kneels, his movements deliberate, and lifts my chin with one icy finger. "What's the matter? Did you actually believe I cared?"