Page 126 of Reign

I’ve agreed to make her a list.

At the moment, I can’t imagine writing a single name.

Chapter 22

Elena

Rules.

I hate rules.

I sit on the couch with my notebook open on my lap and a pen in my hand like I’m attending the world’s most inappropriate seminar. Writing everything down makes the unknown feel organized, and organized things are less likely to ruin my life.

Luciano stands near the windows with one hand in his pocket, looking entirely too calm for a man who just agreed to train me for someone else.

I’m being practical.

Mature. Strategic.

Possibly insane, but with structure.

“Before we begin,” he says, “these are terms we agree to, not commandments you accept because I gave them. If something doesn’t work for you, say so. We change it, or we don’t train.”

My brows lift. “I’m allowed to negotiate the rules?”

His lips twitch. “I’d be surprised if you didn’t try.”

“That sounded dangerously close to a compliment.”

“Don’t get a big head about it.”

I write:

Rules are negotiable. Luciano remains annoying.

“First,” he says, “your safeword.”

“Anaranjada.”

His amusement quiets, but doesn’t disappear completely. “That’s what you’re going with?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“It’s my favorite Spanish word. I like the way it sounds, and I’ll remember it even if every other thought leaves my head.”

“Then anaranjada is your safeword.”

I write it carefully across the top of the page.

Anaranjada.

Luciano leaves the windows and approaches the couch, stopping on the opposite side of the coffee table.

“It isn’t decoration,” he says. “If you use it, everything stops immediately. I’ll release any restraint and ask only what I need to make sure you’re safe and comfortable. Everything else waits until you’re ready.”

My pen slows.