Total pages in book: 76
Estimated words: 68858 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 230(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 68858 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 275(@250wpm)___ 230(@300wpm)
He paused, looking up at me with an unsettling calm. "All you need to do is enjoy your meal. The decision has already been made."
"What does that mean?"
"What's the point in pretending you may turn down my offer, or that I'd let you?" he continued, his eyes boring into mine.
"Do you hear yourself right now?" I asked, incredulity coloring my voice.
“I do. And so that there’s no surprise later on,” his eyes locked onto mine with an unwavering intensity. "You will be completely and utterly mine. I mean that in every barbaric, possessive, and fucked-up way imaginable."
I couldn't come up with a quick response to counter his words, no feminist ideals to argue against his offer. Ultimately, he was right, and I would have to accept it.
I observed him closely, taking in every detail of his appearance: the perfectly styled dark hair, the sharp jawline that looked even more defined in the low light, and his captivating eyes that always seemed to hold power and mystery. He was gorgeous. He was also twisted to the core and unapologetic in his actions.
"So, tell me. What does me being your wife look like?" I asked, trying to maintain a semblance of control.
He reached for his drink with a grin, the glass catching the light as he lifted it. "I could tell you, but I'd rather show you."
"And how would you do that?" I asked, my curiosity piqued despite my apprehension.
"I'd start with us finishing our meal," he replied smoothly. "And you relaxing with a drink."
I wasn’t hungry, but I still remembered the last time I’d said that to him. Reluctantly, I picked up my fork and continued eating.
I knew this dinner would be the last meal we shared before everything changed between us.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
One drink had turned into a few too many, and I was pleasantly buzzed. The city lights blurred into streaks of color outside the window, creating a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere. I slouched in Mateo's passenger seat, more comfortable than I should've been as we headed back towards the estates. I glanced over at him, his profile illuminated by the passing streetlights. He looked composed, every bit the powerful man he was, even in this relaxed setting.
My mind swirled with the events of the evening, his words, his promises, and the undeniable pull between us I was trying to ignore. I laughed to myself wondering what the point of that was. If I were to be this man's wife, I would most certainly be in his bed. I didn't entirely hate the idea of being pinned beneath him. If that's what it took to bring my sister back to me, well, I could think of worse fates.
"You seem to be in a good mood," he observed, his tone casual but with an undercurrent of satisfaction.
"I am, I think," I admitted.
He chuckled softly, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the steering wheel. "Good."
I leaned back in the seat, closing my eyes for a moment. The reality of my situation was beginning to sink in, but in this hazy state, it didn't seem quite as daunting. I knew that once the buzz wore off, the weight of it all would return, but for now, I allowed myself a moment of respite. Melody and Peyton would have had a stroke if they had seen me right then.
It wasn't until we passed through the gates that I realized Mateo's destination was his own home. The mansion loomed ahead, impressive and intimidating despite the darkness. The driveway curved elegantly around a central fountain, its waters shimmering under the soft ambient lighting.
As we approached, I spotted two men patrolling the perimeter, each moving in a different direction. I knew there were probably more unseen guards ensuring the safety of the estate.
My first instinct was to message Peyton and Melody about my whereabouts. I hurriedly pulled out my phone from my clutch and sent them a quick update. Just as I hit send, Mateo drove into a massive garage filled with three other luxury cars that easily cost more than my entire life. He parked and turned off the engine, leaving us in an eerie silence.
"Why did you bring me here?" I asked, trying to sound brave.
"To do exactly what I promised," he replied with a smirk as he stepped out of the car and came around to open my door. He offered me his hand, which completely engulfed mine. His grip was strong yet surprisingly gentle. As I followed him out of the car, his presence seemed to fill up the entire space around us.
Mateo’s eyes met mine, a flicker of something unreadable in them. "Come," he said softly, his voice a mix of command and invitation.
We walked through the garage, the luxury cars gleaming under the soft overhead lights. I felt a sense of unreality as he led me through a side entrance into the house. The interior was just as opulent as I had imagined, with high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and an artful blend of classic and modern decor. The air was scented with something subtle and expensive.