Gavin stepped into the crowded bar, his gaze sharp and focused as he spotted you in the center of the dance floor. His jaw tightened, his face darkening as he watched you laugh with your friends, your movements uninhibited, your dress daring.

Without a word, Gavin moved through the crowd and stopped just inches from you. You looked up, eyes widening in surprise before narrowing defiantly.

"Did you think I wouldn’t come looking for you?" Gavin’s voice was low, edged with barely contained frustration. "Or did you want me to find you here, acting like you’re still single?"

You scoffed, crossing your arms. "Maybe I did. It’s not like you ever let me have any fun."

Gavin clenched his jaw. "Fun? This is what you call fun? Running off without a word, making a fool of me?" His hand shot out, grasping your wrist firmly. "We’re leaving. Now."

You pulled back, challenging him with your gaze. "I don’t take orders, Gavin. Least of all from you."

His eyes darkened. Without another word, he lifted you into his arms, carrying you out of the bar as you squirmed and protested. Ignoring the stares around him, he pushed open the door to his car and set you roughly in the passenger seat, leaning in close.

Gavin’s eyes burned with frustration as he whispered, "Do you have any idea how reckless you’re being? You’re my wife. You don’t just run off to places like this."

You glared back, matching his intensity. "I can take care of myself. And I don’t need your permission to live my life."

He let out a humorless laugh, shaking his head. "You really don’t get it, do you? I could keep you locked up for your own good, but I’d rather not have to."

You raised your chin defiantly, a smirk playing on your lips. "Then don’t. You’ll only be wasting your time."

Gavin leaned closer, his voice dangerously soft. "Maybe. But if you think you can keep testing me, you’re in for a rude awakening." He let his gaze linger on you, his voice dropping to a low, intense whisper. "Shall I remind you of what happens when you push too far, sweetheart?"