Page 158 of The Contract

Decker doesn’t miss a beat. He mimics her voice with a theatrical pout, baby voicing, “The party’s just beginning.”

Yes, she can barely stand, but sure—let’s pretend non-consent is fun.

I don’t bother hiding the glare I throw him. “She’s had enough partying. For a lifetime.”

I try to pry her away from him, but she’s limp in my arms. Dead weight and not going anywhere without a damn wheelbarrow.

The struggle only seems to amuse him.

He chuckles—a low, sadistic sound that crawls down my spine.

“She can’t leave without her birthday gift.”

Mila gasps, practically vibrating with delight. “Oh my god, you’re the best! What did you get me?”

“Close your eyes.”

Not exactly a challenge for her in this state.

Somehow, Mila still manages a burst of energy—bouncing on her heels like a little girl waiting for cake.

Decker lifts a hand and twirls his fingers with a flourish. “You. Turn around. Don’t spoil the surprise.”

Fucking really?

Mila giggles. “This is gonna be so good.”

I turn—slowly. Reluctantly.

I give him three seconds before I snap.

He gives me two.

“Okay,” he says, the voice of smug satisfaction. “You can look.”

I brace myself for something flashy and douchey—maybe a charm with his name on it or a gift card to whatever strip club has the best wings.

But when I turn…

All the air rushes from my lungs.

It’s not some cheap gag or drunken afterthought.

It’s a necklace.

Beautiful and elegant and…black.

A string of glittering, breathtaking, jet black diamonds.

Clasped tight around Mila’s neck.

CHAPTER 54

Riley

“There you are.”

Chio finds me. He’s flustered and out of breath, and now flanked by two guards built like bank vaults.

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