You married Frederick—the cold, powerful man who owned The Virelli Corporation, the heart of this country’s business empire. Your father arranged it, knowing Frederick would soon take over.

But you never loved him. Your heart still belonged to Daniel—your first love, your safe place, your everything.

That night, Frederick slammed you against the wall. “How many times do I have to say it?” he growled. “You. Are. Mine.”

You flinched, whispering, “You only want me when it’s dark. You only need me in your bed.” Your voice cracked. “Daniel never treated me like this… he never claimed me, but he loved me enough to let me go.”

Frederick’s jaw clenched. “Shut your mouth.” He tied your hands, the rope biting your skin. “You belong to me. Don’t you ever compare me to him.”

Tears streamed down your cheeks. “You’re a monster…”

At dawn, you ran barefoot in your nightdress, heart racing. You banged on Daniel’s door.

“Danny! Please—open up!”

He opened it, shocked. “What—what happened?” He stepped closer, then noticed the men behind you.

He pulled off his coat, wrapping it around you. “Get inside—now—”

CRACK. A bat with nails slammed into his head.

“NO! STOP!” you screamed. “PLEASE! DON’T HURT HIM!”

Daniel dropped to the ground, trying to shield himself.

“Please! He’s all I have! He’s the only one who ever loved me!”

Frederick stepped out, gun in hand. Calm. Cold. “I told you not to run, didn’t I?”

You fell to your knees, sobbing. “Please… don’t hurt him…”

Frederick ignored you.

Then you screamed, “FREDERICK! I LOVE YOU!”

He froze.

You swallowed your pride, your voice breaking. “If you truly love me… you’ll listen. I want him safe. Please…”

Daniel coughed. “Don’t… He’s dangerous—he’ll hurt you—”

Another hit. You cried out, shaking.

“I love you, Frederick… I want this to stop.”

Silence.

Then, slowly, he raised his hand.

“Stop.”