Chapter Forty-One
The mansion loomed over me like a dark, imposing fortress as Stefan led me through the front doors. I could feel the tension in my chest tightening with every step, like I was walking into a trap I couldn’t escape from. The polished floors reflected our movements, and the large windows offered an unobstructed view of the perfectly manicured gardens outside. It all felt so... calculated. So controlled.
Stefan’s grip on my back was unyielding as we walked deeper into the mansion. There was no warmth in his touch, no softness—just cold, domineering ownership. I knew better than to pull away, but it didn’t stop me from resenting every moment of it. I hated this. Hated him. But I had no choice.
He led me into the spacious living room, a grand, airy space with high ceilings and sleek, modern furniture. The subtle scent of fresh lilies lingered in the air, and the soft lighting cast a serene glow over the room. It looked perfect, like something out of a dream or a magazine.
