The day was already exhausting, but Levi was making it worse.
He thought it was cute, parading me around like I was some kind of trophy with this fucking bite mark on my neck. I could see the judgment in everyone's eyes—smiles on their mouths, doubt in their expressions. Like I didn't belong here. Like I didn't deserve to be claimed by him.
It made my skin crawl.
The doctor had said I'd heal faster if I accepted Levi. That's the only reason I agreed to this ridiculous new "deal." I didn't think it would mean being dragged around like a prize-winning pet on display.
This bite mark is so much more trouble than it's worth.
Even worse, lately... the idea of escaping wasn't bringing me the same joy it used to. I used to fantasize about running. About being free. But now? Now it just made my stomach twist a little. I don't know why.
I hate it.
"Sir, there's a woman at the gate. She says she's your mother," Emma said.
Perfect. Just fucking perfect.
