KATHERINE
My breath got stuck in my throat as, all of a sudden, Lucian’s large hands slammed into my waist, his fingers sinking into my hips with inappropriate force. Before I could protest, he flushed my body against his, pulling me against his chest in a desperate, suffocating hold that felt more passionate than anything he'd given me in our entire marriage. That brutal show of strength was so dramatic, and the intent so obvious, that Xander let out a low, warning growl.
"I know your little plan," Lucian muttered into my ear, his breath hot against my skin. There was a sharp, frantic edge to his voice—almost... playful? "I get it, baby. You wanted me to fight for you. Well, I am. I know you still love me, Katherine, and I love you. You just let me know when you're done throwing this ta
