Morning came faster than expected.
Shopia slowly opened her eyes, her body feeling weak, as if the long night had drained every bit of energy from her. Damian was still asleep beside her, his face calm, almost innocent… and that was exactly what made her chest tighten even more.
She rose carefully, trying not to wake the man next to her. Her steps toward the bathroom were heavy, but her mind was heavier.
Water gushed from the faucet, splashing against her face. Shopia stared at her reflection in the mirror—swollen eyes, pale skin, and a smile that had vanished who knows when.
“What have I done?” she whispered internally.
Damian might have given her shelter. He even offered her protection. But every inch of his attention came with a price: full control over her body and life. He never
