Page 8 of Sadistic

The words stick in my throat because what I need is freedom, choice, a life that's mine.

But that's not on the table. Never was.

"Protection," I say finally. "For my family. For Dalla especially."

"Done."

"Power. Real power, not just being your ornament."

Doran smirks, actually fucking smirks at me. "I wouldn't waste you as an ornament."

"And if I say no to all of this?"

His hand tightens on mine, not painful but inescapable. "Then the cartel makes their move. Your father's alliance weakens. People die." He leans forward. "But we both know you're not saying no. You're too smart for that."

"You're so sure."

"I've had five years to be sure." He releases my hand. "Monday, we announce the engagement. The wedding will be on the fifth of July. Your father wants it done before the cartel can regroup."

"That's four weeks away."

"Problem?"

I think about the acceptance letter in my pocket. The life I'd planned. The choice that was never really mine.

"No," I say quietly. "No problem."

"Good." He stands, throws too much money on the table. "I'll drive you back to Everly's."

"I have my car."

"Which will be delivered back to you in the morning." He's already moving, expecting me to follow.

And God help me, I do.

His car is exactly what I'd expect—black, expensive, bulletproof glass.

The interior smells like leather and that cologne that scrambled my brain earlier.

"Your sister," he says as we drive. "She's pre-med?"

"Yes."

"I'll arrange additional security. Discreet. She won't even know they're there."

"Until they interfere with her life like you did mine."

"I only interfered when necessary, little wolf." He glances at me. "That boy last night wasn't the first to be warned off."

"I know." The words taste bitter. "How many?"

"Twelve."

"Twelve." I laugh, but it's hollow. "In five years, you scared off twelve men."

"Thirteen if you count Professor Williams, but that was more of a public service." At my shocked look, he shrugs. "He had a reputation with female students. You deserved better."

"I deserved a choice."

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