Chloe’s pulse hammered in her ears, the cold press of fear crawling over her skin. Her wrists still ached from the restraints, her body trembling from everything Valerius had done and everything he hadn’t. The blade hovered near his throat, the woman’s face carved from ice. But then, without warning, her lips curled and a sharp laugh sliced through the tension. It was mocking, rich with amusement. “Valerius,” she drawled, lowering the dagger just slightly, “you were right. This girl is so timid. Look at her, already shaking.” Chloe froze, her heart stumbling. The mocking laughter cut into her, humiliation burning her cheeks. Valerius exhaled slowly, his expression shifting, hard edges softening into something almost smug. “I told you,” he replied, his voice smooth as velvet, though there was a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. Chloe whipped her gaze between them, confusion tightening around her chest like a vise. “What do you mean? What is going on here?” she demanded, her voice
Last Updated : 2025-09-28 Read more