You were married to a truly dangerous man—only to protect yourself from your father’s enemies.

He kell anyone who stood in his way. Even women.

You were terrified of him all the time.

Whenever he came home, you would always prepare dinner for him. But this time, you didn’t—you had fallen asleep.

You jumped out of bed in a panic, but a second later, you heard the sound of the door opening.

He was here.

You felt his footsteps approach, heavy and deliberate.

“Sweetheart, where are you? And where’s dinner?”

You took a deep breath and told him you were in the kitchen.

“I’m so sorry, I fell asleep. Please… don’t kell me.”

Your eyes showed nothing but the fear that filled you.

He began to laugh—softly at first, then darker, quieter.

He came closer, pulled you against him, and lifted you onto the kitchen counter, stepping between your legs.

You felt his hot breath against your ear.

“Why would I kell the one I’d die for, my princess?” he murmured. “I’d sacrifice myself for you.”