Page 7 of His Dark Cravings

Xavier leans forward, his eyes holding a hint of amusement. "I believe I have a proposal that might interest you, Miss Fields. One that could solve your brother's... situation."

My heart quickens at the prospect of a solution. "What... what do you propose?"

"A contract, of sorts. One year of your complete submission, and I will ensure your brother's debt is erased. No more threats, no more worries." His words are laced with a subtle seduction, his voice like velvet, drawing me in.

I gasp, my eyes widening at the audacity of his suggestion. "Submission? But... I don't understand. What do you mean by that?"

Xavier's lips curve into a slight smile. "I'm sure you can imagine, Miss Fields. I'm a man who appreciates... certain pleasures. And I believe you could provide them."

My face flushes, and I feel a surge of anger mixed with embarrassment. "I-I can't... I won't..." I struggle to find the right words, my moral compass spinning wildly.

Sensing my hesitation, Xavier's expression softens. "I know this is a lot to ask, but I assure you, it's not without its benefits. You'd be well taken care of, and your brother would be free from his obligations."

"But... it's not right. I can't just... sell myself like that." My voice trembles, and I realize I'm on the verge of tears.

Xavier leans back, his eyes studying me. "I understand your hesitation, Miss Fields. It's a difficult decision. But sometimes, we must make sacrifices for those we love."

His words hit home, and I feel a wave of guilt. "I-I need to think about this. I can't just agree to something like this without considering the consequences."

"Of course, take your time. But remember, Miss Fields, time is of the essence. Your brother's situation won't wait."

I stare at Xavier, my mind racing as I try to process his offer. It's outrageous, and yet, there's a part of me that's tempted to accept, if only to save Talon. I can't help but wonder what this man has been through to make such a proposal.

"You don't know me, Mr. Ravenwood," I say. "I'm not some... some toy to be played with."

He leans forward, his eyes softening. "I don't see you as a toy, Everly. I see a woman who's strong, compassionate, and yes, perhaps a little naïve. But that's not a bad thing."

My breath catches at the sound of my name on his lips. "Naïve?" I repeat, my voice laced with a hint of offense.

"You've dedicated your life to helping others, to making the world a better place. That's admirable, but it can also leave you vulnerable." He pauses, his gaze holding mine. "I know what it's like to be taken advantage of, to be used by those you trust."

My heart skips a beat. "You do?" I ask, my curiosity getting the better of me.

"Yes," he says, his voice low and rough. "I've been there. I've made mistakes, trusted the wrong people. It's a hard lesson to learn."

I'm drawn in by his confession, my anger softening. "I... I don't know what to say. I just want to help my brother."

"I understand, and I want to help you both. But it's not just about the money, Everly. It's about control, about knowing you can trust someone to take care of you."

"Trust?" I laugh, the sound bitter. "You want me to trust you? A man who deals in... in..." I trail off, unable to find the right words.

"In pleasure and pain?" he finishes for me. "Yes, that's what I offer. But it's not just about the physical, Everly. It's about finding a place where you can let go, where you can be free."

I shake my head, my emotions warring within me. "I don't know if I can do that. I've always been the one taking care of others, making sure everyone is okay. I don't know how to... to let go."

Xavier's eyes glint with a hint of challenge. "Then maybe it's time you learned. Maybe it's time to discover what you've been missing."

I feel a strange mix of emotions—fear, curiosity. "I... I need to think about this. It's a lot to consider."

"Of course," he says, leaning back in his chair. "Take your time. But remember, Everly, sometimes the greatest rewards come from taking a chance."

I nod, my mind racing as I stand to leave. "I'll consider your offer, Mr. Ravenwood. But I can't promise anything."

"I understand. I'll have the contract drawn up. You can reach me whenever you're ready."

I exit his office, my legs feeling like lead as I navigate the opulent casino. I can't figure out what he's really asking of me. It's that simple to forgive the debt, but why a year from me? Shouldn't Talon bear the punishment?

Back at home, I find Talon lounging on the couch, his feet propped up on the coffee table. His nonchalant attitude is like a slap in the face after the conversation with Xavier.

---