Page 40 of Once A Villain

I give Spencer my best fake smile, the kind that fools everyone. But not him. He sees right through it, glaring but not pushing.

Our father hates me...I know it. I’ve always known it.

Spencer refuses to believe it, and I don’t know why. It’s been painfully obvious ever since my mom died—I’m nothing more than a burden.

Spencer is the golden child. His success is expected, required—the heir to our father’s throne. I’m the daughter of the ghost that haunts him. I remind him of the worst day of his life, and he reminds me of that every chance he gets. Not with words but with actions—the subtle and not-so-subtle ways he shows his disappointment.

The waitress brings our entrees and sets the plates in front of us. The conversation turns to lighter topics. I smile and bite into my hamburger, the greasy flavor filling my mouth. We reminisce about the good times and laugh at our stupid teenage antics.

I tease Spencer about dragging his feet with Heather, and he tells me about their latest arguments. They’ve been together forever, but he still won’t tie the knot. He wants to bejustlike Dad—minus the multiple marriages. So, he throws himself into his Sovereign duties.

I’ve never been in a serious relationship. Not for lack of trying, but men don’t tend to stick around. I lost my virginity at thirteen to a boy from school. I didn’t really want to have sex with him, but I needed the distraction from the pain. It was just another way for me to numb the ache, a temporary relief.

Then I moved on to older men. The older, the better. The more powerful, the better. I was drawn to them, addicted to the thrill. Their control, dominance, and authority fed a deep-rooted ache inside me.

Daddy issues much?

But none of it matters now. Because now, I’m married to the most vile, despicable man alive. It’s laughable in the most twisted, fucked-up way.

After eating, we leave the diner and make the dreaded drive to my prison. As we approach the imposing gate, his reaction mirrors my initial shock.

“Christ, that’s one hell of a house.” Passing through the gates, he drives up the extensive driveway. “It’s a fucking castle. I knew the Hawthornes were wealthy, but damn...”

“It’s a prison,” I reply, rolling my eyes. He parks, and we get out. “I’d invite you in, but...”

“It’s fine. Just text me and let me know you’re okay.” He hugs me, kissing the top of my head with a reassuring smile. “Call me if you need anything.”

“I will,” I promise. He hugs me again, and I bury my face in his chest, savoring the comfort and safety. With one last squeeze, he retreats to his car and drives away. I miss him already, and loneliness sets in immediately.

Sighing, I reluctantly enter the house, closing the door behind me.

Kane rushes over, tail wagging eagerly. I bend down to scratch behind his ears, managing a small smile. At least someone is happy to see me.

“You’re a good boy, aren’t you, Kane?” I coo, running my fingers through his fur.

“That dog is a fucking nuisance,” Griffen’s voice cuts in.

I glance up to see him entering the foyer. Kane growls immediately, and I chuckle.

“I think he likes me,” I retort, smirking at his scowl.

“He’s a pain in the ass,” he grumbles, glaring at Kane. “Always growling at me.”

“I like him,” I reply, rising and following Griffen into the kitchen. He’s shirtless, tattoos sprawled across his muscular back.

“Of course you do,” he mutters, grabbing a beer and taking a swig. “Axe is upstairs and in a shitty mood. Don’t make it worse.”

I groan inwardly and close my eyes. Dealing with him is the last thing I want to do right now, or ever.

“Can’t you get him drunk?”

“No can do, doll. I’ve got a Slut tied to my bed. You’re on your own.”

“Fuck my life,” I mutter, rubbing my temples. “If he locks me in the basement, will you at least save me?”

“Nope.” He leans against the wall, crossing his arms. “But I won’t let him kill you. How’s that?”

“Not comforting,” I snap with a glare. “Why is everyone in this house an asshole?”

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