I yanked at the chain twice. The metal was biting into my wrist with every move I made.
“Fuck,” I hissed, then louder, “this can’t be happening.”
I sat up and stared at the cuff, trying to twist my hand free. But the sound of footsteps stopped me cold. I could hear him coming closer.
When he stepped inside, he looked straight at me.
“Why aren’t you dressed?”
“First of all, I just woke up, okay?” I shot back. “And secondly,” I lifted my cuffed hand, rattling it hard, “hello?”
“That attitude won’t get you anywhere,” he said, walking toward the closet on the right. He started unbuttoning his shirt, calm as if I wasn’t chained to his bed.
“Why am I even here?” I muttered, turning my back to him. But in front of me stood a large mirror with ornate gold edges, and no matter how I tried not to look, it caught every movement of his body.
“Admiring the view?” he asked. His reflection met mine.
I shut my eyes.
“I saw nothing,” I said, sneaking another glance as I realized he was now completely naked, facing me without shame.
“Do I see a bit of drool, Doll?” he teased, pointing to the corner of his lips. “Here, just a bit.” He laughed quietly.
I pulled my knees to my chest and buried my face there.
“You can look,” he chuckled. “I’m not shy.”
“You didn’t answer my question,” I said, my voice muffled against my thighs.
“You asked for Rocco’s help, and he helped.”
“By locking me here?” I lifted my head. At least now he had underwear on.
“By selling you to me,” he said with a smirk.
“I can’t be sold,” I whispered. “What do you mean?” My brows furrowed, tears already stinging my eyes.
“You signed a contract with him last year. It says he can sell you to whoever he wants.” He cleared his throat like it was casual. “Didn’t you read it, Doll?”
“I did not,” I said, dropping my face back into my knees.
“That’s pretty dumb, don’t you think?”
“So what now? You own me?” I asked, staring at him.
He stepped closer, kneeling on the mattress beside me. His thumb pressed against my jaw, pulling me toward him.
“Yes,” he said, eyes locked on my lips. “You are my Doll now.”
“I’m not your Doll.” I turned my face away.
He laughed.
“Then stop acting like one.” He stood, pacing slowly. “Look at yourself. Helpless. Controlled by any man who comes near you.”
He leaned close, his voice dropping low. “Just like a little rag doll you are.” His laughter became sharper and colder.
My jaw tightened. Humiliation burned through me, and I took every bit of strength I had. And with my free hand, I slapped him across the face, leaving a bright red mark across his cheek.
