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It was a bitter truth. One I hated to admit, even though it was convenient for the moment.
His features darkened. “My wife will do as I say.”
“You don’t want to upset him.”
“You’ll make sure he isn’t.”
Pain shot through my arm as he applied more pressure.
“Who do you think is of more consequence? Me? Or you?” I didn’t bother with false pleasantries. There was no need, though I didn’t want him to see the rage boiling inside me. “He is a very powerful man.”
“And as long as you keep me satisfied, we’ll have no issue.”
My stomach turned at the insinuation. Was I bound to make the men around me happy? Was that my duty in life?
He mashed his mouth to mine. I turned my head, but he grabbed my chin, and forced me to take the kiss. The pain in my arm shifted to my face and his crushing hold. I beat his chest with my fist, but that only seemed to excite him.
He tasted of stale whiskey as he jabbed his tongue into my mouth over and over.
Stop.
I screamed in my head, but no one could hear it.
The harder I shoved, the harder he held me in place. My jaw felt like it was going to crack.
Get away. Get away. Get away.
He pulled on my hair, and my fists flew more wildly. Another jab into my mouth with his tongue. I bit as hard as I could.
The whiskey taste was replaced with blood.
“You bitch!” He shoved with such force that I stumbled to the ground.
My shoes fell off as I scrambled up. I’d lost my purse, but my phone was still clutched in my hand. I ran with as much speed as I could muster down the front walk. The rocks that stabbed the bottom of my bare feet were nothing compared to the pain in my arm and face.
I glanced back.
Alex was still doubled over. And a figure was in the front window.
My father had witnessed the whole ugly scene and did nothing to stop it.
The shame was worse than any bruise or fractured bone. I’d taken such pride at how strong I was. But when that bastard forced himself on me, I’d stood there and taken it like a weak, pathetic person.
I sprinted toward the park. I couldn’t go to Lincoln’s. Couldn’t let him see that I hadn’t been able to take care of myself. My father wouldn’t do anything to Alex, but Lincoln would kill him without blinking. Teague would do the same.
I collapsed on a bench. My hand shook as I dialed. I needed help.
“P-p-pick me up at East 83rd and Park.”
Chapter Twenty-Four
Cal
I spedthrough the red light, laying on the horn as I blasted through the intersection.
Two blocks.
Hang on, baby sister. I’m almost there.
