Page 180 of Risks of Temptation

"Yes. We must do whatever it takes to end this. Gustave is right."

"No, he's not," Malin says through clenched teeth.

"Play your role. Don't interfere with us getting what we need. And come to terms with it. You know there will be consequences for both of us if you back out," Gustave seethes, rises, and leaves.

I straddle Malin. "Listen to me."

"We are not going there."

"Keep our boundary," I blurt out.

His head jerks back. "What do you mean?"

"We will go. I will submit to you. You will deny me. No matter what, you will not give in to me. We will do what needs to be done for Gustave to get access. But none of them will break us."

"Emil—"

"I am your ma belle. Do not forget."

Malin takes a deep breath. "I could never forget. I will not subject you to this or let you take this risk."

I stick my chin out. "I will not break. I know what to do."

I've never seen Malin look so angry. "No."

"When will you understand I will be okay as long as you are with me?"

"Ma belle—"

I cup his cheeks. "There are too many women being harmed. We have to do this."

His gray eyes are dark. "No, we don't. I forbid you."

I blink hard. "You can't. Gustave made the deal. There's no backing out and you already know this. There will be consequences. It's an hour. I lasted longer before. Have faith in me."

"I always have faith in you, ma belle. This is not about that."

I lean closer to him. "Will you and Gustave get out of this room alive if you back out?"

He stares at the ceiling.

"We have no choice. We will do this, and tomorrow we will have another day together. Now kiss me. Show me how much you love me."

His eyes meet mine.

"Please," I whisper.

His hand possessively holds my head, and his lips and tongue consume me, leaving me breathless, wanting more, and spinning the web of our love around us.

But love can't protect you from evil or fate.

The music changes. I reposition myself on Malin's lap. He holds me tight, and a woman with a black bag over her head is led onstage.

My chest tightens, the flashback of the white bag covering my face triggers. I dig my nails into Malin's thigh.

He kisses my shoulder and leans into my ear. "Breathe, ma belle."

I inhale his leather and lime scent, calming.