Charles parked his car, glancing over his shoulder to ensure no one had followed him before stepping inside the building. As soon as he entered, Asher’s voice rang out.
“Why are you so late?” Asher asked, clearly irritated.
Charles sighed, a sly smile forming as his eyes landed on Elara. She was trembling, bound, and clearly terrified.
“Apologies,” Charles replied, walking over to her. “Work’s been keeping me busy.” He knelt down, lifting her chin with cold fingers. “Did you miss me, sweetheart?”
Elara’s rebellion flickered despite her fear. “Not in a thousand years,” she spat, glaring up at him.
Charles wiped his face, still smiling, unbothered by her resistance. “You’ll learn to be obedient,” he said with a chilling calm. “Maybe then I’ll consider sparing your life in exchange for b
