Charles's POV
Sandy attempted to yank her foot free, but my grip around her ankle remained firm. The warmth of her skin beneath my fingertips sent electricity through my veins.
"Don't move," I ordered, my voice dropping to a dangerous rumble.
There was no need to shout. She understood the weight behind my tone, the consequence of defying me when I spoke with such authority.
Her eyes blazed with fury, her breathing rapid and shallow. The rebellion burning in her gaze was like watching embers dance in darkness, fierce yet fragile.
"We're finished, Charles. Release me. I've already turned you down, so now you're free to pursue whatever twisted desires you want."
I remained motionless, unblinking. Allowing her to escape my grasp before had nearly shattered my sanity. It had left me empty, restless, like a caged animal tearing at its own flesh.
I refused to endure that torment again.
The contract lay in ruins, but that didn't mean I would walk away from her.
