She thought she was bargaining. He knew he was choosing.

MELISSA

When I was desperate enough to beg for help, I went to him.

I thought I was offering myself to save my family—to erase a debt written in blood and fear. I didn't expect the man behind the power. I didn't expect the way his attention felt like being stripped bare.

He sent me away. Humiliated me. Made it clear I was nothing to him.
But the fire he lit inside me didn't die that day.

Some men don't save you.
They claim you.

BILLY

Melissa came to me looking for salvation.

I could've taken her money. I could've taken blood. Instead, I wanted her—every reckless, defiant inch of her. The kind of want that burns fast and leaves nothing standing.

So I pushed her away. Lied to her face.
Told her I wasn't interested.

That was the biggest lie I've ever told.

I am the bad guy.
And once I decide something is mine, I don't let it escape.

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