“What terms?” I shoot back. “When did we ever agree to terms? You’re mine, and that’s it. That’s all that matters.”
Her jaw drops. “Are you serious? This was always roleplay. I thought you understood.”
The horrific declaration is a brutal punch to my gut.
How did I fuck this up so badly?
She’s supposed to be wrapped around me, kissing me like she needs me more than her next breath.
I’ve worked so hard to position myself in her life. There’s an undeniable power imbalance at the university, but it was the best way to ensure I met her.
All those years mirroring her studies. All the crimes I committed to earn the money I needed for this new identity. The bribes and threats I made to secure my position as Professor Rand Hirst.
I never intended to tell her what I’ve done to have her, but she’s supposed to be thrilled that her masked online confidante could be with her. She’s supposed to realize that I’m the perfect man for her in every way.
But I was never worthy.
I’ve always known that.
I reached for my pure, perfect Karolina with bloody hands anyway.
I drop my arms to my sides.
“Fine,” I grind out. “Leave, then. There’s a change of clothes for you at the manor. The limo will take you back to York.”
She stiffens at the dismissal. “And what about you?”
“What about me?” I bark.
As though she actually cares.
She flinches. “I guess you’ll find another ride home. Or maybe someone else to amuse you for the night.”
“Go,” I snarl. “Before I make you regret saying that to me.”
She turns on her heel and sprints away. The dark woods swallow her slim form after a few long strides.
I roar out my frustration and pain.
No matter how much she protests, Karolina is mine. She’s always belonged to me.
I need her firmly under my control, unable to escape me.
Unwilling to ever leave me again.
Nothing will tear us apart, not even her.
7
KAROLINA
The day that passes after the hunt is long and painful. All I’ve been able to think about is Bones’ anguished roar after I rejected him in the woods. I can still hardly believe that he actually thought there could be something real between us.
I never agreed to anything like that.
Or did I?
You belong to me. All of you. Relax for me, Karolina. Let me claim you.
