Page 141 of The Villain

“Why do you want me to be happy?” He asks in a soft tone, his shoulders stiffening up.

I blink at him, baffled.

“Because I’m yours. You said so yourself earlier. I’d like you to be pleased about it. Either way you’re not leaving.”

“When did I say it?” His eyes snap to mine and narrow as if this is a big game. Something that will decide if he can be allowed outside or kept chained up in the house. He’s not allowed to leave. Either way I’ll win.

“When you said I was yours,” I tell him and begin to frown. “Then again when you said you love me. I’ve heard that it’s difficult for people to say and mean it. But you sounded sincere. Both times.”

“If I said I love you now, what would you say back?” He whispers, his lips turning up into a hesitant smile.

I raise a brow. “You’re mine.”

He pauses as if he’s holding his breath and lets the air out slowly. “And you’re mine.”

I nod. “You can say it whatever way is comfortable for you. I prefer this. It cuts down on bullshit and gets to the point. Emotions twist too easily. This is a more stable foundation for you. A sturdy space to land when you fall off your pedestal, with cushioning of course. I don’t want you to break.”

He gapes at me as the rebooting face starts again. When he doesn’t snap out of it after a full minute, I take a picture of him and go back to sharpening my razor. I don’t want to miss it if this expression is amazing and freeing. I’ll ask about it later.

I’m finished and inspecting the blade when he slides across the cushion to press against me.

He’s looking at the razor and frowning hard.

“Is it nicked?” I ask and take a closer look.

“No. I need you to come to bed with me. I’m exhausted and I’d like to hold you.”

I glance at him with surprise. “Of course. I’ll grab you some water while you change and meet you in bed.”

“You want me to wear pajamas?” He asks and gives me a weak laugh.

“You like them and so do I. You’re a little too tired for sex right now and I don’t need the extra temptation.”

His mouth works for a second before he utters, “That sounds perfect actually. I love you, baby.”

He holds his breath as he waits for my reply.

“You’re mine, statue,” I stroke my fingers over his cheek, glad that his panic is finally managed.

30. Something I Can’t Have

Shade

Something is wrong.

I’ve been drifting in sleep, warm and content. Both feelings are sliding out of my reach. I turn to my side, barely aware, and reach for Evie. My hand falls on flat, cold sheets.

It isn’t right.

My brain struggles to come back online. She should be here but she isn’t. Last time she was on the couch. All I have to do is drag my lazy ass out of bed and find her.

But she should have been here already. I’ve already told her I need her with me. Is this my punishment?

Pissed at the thought, my eyes snap open. As soon as they do, my arms are yanked taut. The back of my hands meet the headboard, smacking my knuckles painfully. I yank against the ties too late. They’re already in place.

My eyes dart to see whatever threat this is and fall on Evie.

For a second my mind relaxes. She’s still with me just not where I left her. Jesus, I’m insane.

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