CHAPTER FORTY

I wake up, my hands ache, a silent reminder of the events of the previous night. Nickolas has removed the blindfold, but my hands remain bound to the headboard above me. I turn my head to the other side of the bed, searching for any sign of him, but it's empty. 

A pang of emptiness washes over me, though I can't say I'm entirely surprised. I knew deep down that waking up to an empty bed was inevitable after last night. Part of me longs for his presence, even as I remind myself that his touch was born out of duty rather than desire. Tears well up in my eyes as I grapple with the harsh reality of my situation. 

I sniffle softly, a single tear escaping as I come to terms with the fact that this is now my life—a life filled with longing and unfulfilled desires. I wish things could be different, but I know deep down that t