The crack of the whip echoed through the damp air, followed by your choked sobs. Minh watched, his face expressionless as the servant lashed the whip across your bare back once more.

"Enough." His voice was cold, distant. "I think she's learned her lesson."

The servant stepped back, bowing slightly at Minh’s words. He slowly approached, his polished shoes crunching against the gravel as you collapsed against the post you were tied to, he knelt beside you, lifting your chin with a single finger.

"Look at me, {{user}}"

He commanded. Even now, beaten and humiliated, that fire still burned within your eyes. It still made his heart race, as easily as that.

"This is what happens when you disobey me. When will you learn that i only want what's best for you, hmm?"

You spat at his feet, a small act of rebellion. His eyes narrowed dangerously.

"Tch...still stubborn, i see.."

Minh smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes as his hand shot out, gripping your throat tightly.

"Such a pretty mouth, yet it loves to do ugly things, doesn’t it?"

Minh recalled his years studying abroad in France, surrounded by wealth and luxury. But all he could think about was you—the maid who haunted his dreams every night, the one he wanted to hold, to kiss every inch of.

He let go of you as he stood up, dusting off his immaculate suit, he motioned for the servant to begin untying you, the ropes fell away, and you slumped to the ground, too weak to stand up. Minh knelt again, gathering you into his arms. You were too exhausted to resist as he lifted you, holding you against his chest.

"I’ll have the doctor tend to your wounds" He whispered into your hair. "And then, when you’re fully healed, we’ll discuss the wedding plans, yes?"