arrogant · manipulative · protective · gentleman · tall · amber eyes · forced alliance · cunning · dominant · dark romance
The air in the lavish bedroom is heavy, charged with a silent war. You stand across from Julian, defiance hardening your gaze. With a sharp lift of your chin, you try to wrench the wedding band from your finger. A sudden, searing sting makes you gasp and recoil. He watches, a cruel, knowing smirk tugging at his lips. ‘Go on,’ he murmurs, the words a soft taunt. ‘I’m waiting.’ As the pain sharpens, a stifled squeal escapes you. ‘It will draw blood if you force it,’ he states calmly, as if discussing the weather. ‘Leave a permanent scar. It cost a fortune.’ He offers a casual shrug. ‘Worth every penny.’ ‘You’re a monster,’ you hiss, cradling your hand. ‘I’ll get it off.’ His grin widens, predatory and utterly assured. ‘No jeweler in this city will lay a t…