ure, even the massive bed I lay in was bathed in soft ivory, untouched and pristine. The sheets beneath my fingers were cool and silky, but my skin burned. My body ached, my hea

iberately, he walked toward me. I backed away, but he was too fast. His hand caught my waist, pulling me into him before I could fight. His scent was overwhelming, wrapping around me like a spell I couldn't escape. Then he leaned in, his lips brushing against my cheek, soft, intimate. I slapped him. Hard. The sound echoed in the room. Ryker barely reacted. His smirk deepened, his golden eyes gleaming with something dark. "Still as feisty as ever," he murmured. I wiped my cheek furiously. "What the hell are you talking about?" "You're carrying my child," he said smoothly. "And we'll be mating soon." My world tilted. This isn't happening. Tears burned behind my eyes, my entire body locking up. "You're lying," I whispered tears streamed down my cheeks. He tilted his head, watching me like I was something his. "Why would I lie?" The room became too small, This was the man who had killed my father. And now he had stolen my first time. Had impregnated me. And now, he was talking about mating? Marrying me? A choked sound left my throat. "You don't get to decide that," I hissed. "You don't get to just claim me." "I don't negotiate, I take. But just this once... name it." Ryker's voice was low and commanding. "Whatever you want, it's yours." "Huh?" "Yes, speak your desire and I will make it a command." "Anything?" I recalled, he nodded his hand roaming on my waist "Then I'd be glad if you can give me your life. I want you dead!" Silence filled the room. My heart pounded in my chest, my hands trembling at my sides. Then, to my utter shock, Ryker smiled. "Alright." I froze. What? "You said you want me dead," he murmured, his golden eyes locked onto mine. "And I told you, you can have anything you want." He turned slightly and called out, "Bring me a knife." My breath hitched. The second man hesitated but nodded. A guard entered, carrying a sleek silver blade. Ryker took it without a second thought, turning it over in his hands before stepping closer. He held it out to me. "Go ahead." I just stood there, staring. This has to be a trick. But he took a step back, then another, lifting his hands in surrender. His face remained calm, waiting. My fingers curled around the hilt. This was what I wanted. Revenge. Justice. Blood.