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We’rehappening.

And she can either accept it or fight me. Either way, I’m ready.

CHAPTER40

DINARA

We’re standingin his house, and all I have to my name is this dress and my phone.

I can’t believe this. Can’t even wrap my mind around it.

I was given a week to brace myself for this, and now it’s all up in flames.

“I’m calling Konstantin,” I snap, already reaching for my cell, trying to keep my hands steady.

Cillian doesn’t even look fazed as he casually slips off his shoes in the foyer, casting a glance my way, that infuriating smirk still playing on his lips. “Be my guest, but it won’t change anything. I’m gonna be your husband, and you’re gonna obey.”

I can’t help but burst out with a laugh—sharp, incredulous. “Oh, that’s cute.”

I pull off my shoes, my movements slow and deliberate as I walk closer. Even now, I feel so small next to him, so weak, despite every ounce of fury trying to build in me. I lift my chin, forcing my eyes to meet his.

“First off, we’re not married yet. And second, I will never, ever obey you.”

He leans in, his breath warm against my skin. “It’s up to you. You’re welcome to disobey.” His rough knuckles skim down my cheek, and a shiver slides through me, sharp and unwelcome. “’Cause I remember how much you enjoy it when I punish you.”

The words hit me with their truth. My stomach coils with irritation and lust, but that only seems to please him.

“Your cheeks get so pink when you’re angry,” he murmurs, watching me with a hunger that makes my skin prickle. “Almost as pink as your pussy.”

Before I can stop myself, my hand flies through the air, aiming for the smug look on his face. But in a single motion, he catches my wrist, spinning me around and pushing me against the wall with a savagery that steals my breath.

“Do that again…” he warns, rough and low. “…and I’ll have you over my knee. And I won’t be gentle.”

“Let go of me, asshole,” I seethe, feeling the pressure of his fingers tightening around my throat.

His gaze narrows, the dangerous glint in his eyes making my chest tighten.

“If it was anyone else calling me that,” he growls, “they’d be dead already.”

My body stiffens with defiance. “I’m not afraid of you.”

“I don’t want you to be.” His tone softens just a little too much.

His lips brush mine—barely a touch, yet it sets fire to my nerves. It’s so tender that I almost want to lean into it, but I fight it with everything I have.

“I want this to be a happy marriage, Dinara.”

“There’s nothing happy about this.” Bitterness and pain lace through every syllable.

“It can be. I’m willing to be the kind of husband you need.”

“You don’t want me. You’re being forced into this just like I am. You’ve said it time and time again: I remind you of what my uncle did to your mom.”

His jaw clenches.

“So let’s be up front with one another,” I continue. “We both don’t want this.”

“That might’ve been true then, but I’ve had a lot of time to think.” His mouth curls just a little.