CHAPTER SEVENTY THREE
PEARL
His grip was like a vice, his fingers digging into my skin. The pain was sharp and immediate, but I forced myself to remain calm, to meet his gaze without flinching.
"I...I needed some time to myself, Ivan. I needed to think," I said, my voice shaking slightly.
The pressure of his grip increased, his fingers like brands on my skin as I struggled to maintain my composure.
The pain was a reminder of the power he held over me, a constant threat that hung in the air like a noose around my neck.
"Time to yourself?" he spat, his voice low and dangerous as he added, "I don't think so. You were gone for hours. Where were you, Pearl? Who were you with?"
"Nobody." I trembled in his hold, I just wanted to think." I defended myself still.
His face twisted in anger,
