Page 608 of Coal Hearts

“Ugh, fine. Oui, oui.” He threw up his hands. “It’s on your head.”

A wild, stupid idea popped into my mind.

He wanted proof she’d behave?

I’ll give him proof.

“Ilyana,” I said softly. “Please assure Victor that you’ve finally accepted your place and will behave.”

She flinched.

Shit.

What the fuck am I doing?

“Yes, Master H.” Swallowing hard, her eyes tightened. “I’ve accepted my place, Sir V.” The words literally looked as if they choked her. “I promise to behave from now on.”

Victor snickered, enjoying her little show. “And...” He arched an eyebrow.

Bastard.

Cunt.

Fuck, this is hard.

Inhaling deeply, condemning myself to hell all over again, I murmured, “Apologise to him, little nightmare.”

Fuck, I’m sorry.

So, so sorry.

Making her apologise to her rapist?

I’d hit my absolute lowest.

She dropped her gaze to the floor, her shoulders bunching. “And I’m sorry for my behaviour, Sir V.”

“Aaaand...” He dragged out the word.

“What else do you want her to say?” I barked.

He gave me a sharp look. “I merely want—”

“I won’t disrupt the balance again, Sir V.” With balled hands, Ily dropped to her knees as elegantly as a falling feather. “I won’t turn Peter against you. I belong to Master H and exist by your magnanimity.”

“Magnanimity, huh?” He smiled with an evil glint. “That’s a big word for a little jewel.”

Bowing her head, she committed to her role in ways that churned my guts. “I’m yours, Sir V.”

He sniffed. “Quite right.” Stepping into her, he rested his hand on her head.

She couldn’t stop a tortured moan escaping.

To let him touch her after what he did to her?

Jesus Christ.

It took all my fucking strength not to kill him.