Phoebe said nothing as tears streamed uncontrollably down her face.
"Why are you crying? Don't like me touching you?" Alexander's voice was deceptively calm, the harbinger of a brewing storm.
She bit her lip, her eyes brimming with tears. It wasn't that she disliked his touch—it was his coldness and cruelty that she couldn't bear.
"Speak!" His eyes turned blood-red, emanating an icy chill.
Still silent, Phoebe let her crystalline tears fall onto Alexander's palm, making his chest tighten inexplicably.
His brows furrowed. Suddenly, he cupped her face and pulled her closer.
His kiss was wild and desperate, more punishment than passion. It was biting, rough, and venting frustration. Phoebe couldn't withstand the pain. The sting and metallic taste of blood spread through her mouth.
"Sto
