He’s a dog. A crazy dog!
Nora’s nails dug into her palm as fury and pain tangled inside her. She forced a breath past her trembling lips.
Her voice sliced through the silence, cold as steel. “Mr. Murphy, yes—it’s true. Seven years ago, I sold myself for money. Yes, I bore that dog a stillborn child. And yes, my father kicked me out like I was filth.”
Her throat tightened, but her chin stayed high. “That’s who I am. So, for your own good, stay away. The closer you get, the faster your reputation burns to the ground.”
Mason didn’t move. Didn’t blink. His chest ached as he watched her—so stubborn, so cold—while her eyes shimmered with unshed tears.
Without thinking, he lifted his hand and brushed his fingers against her brow, gentle, almost reverent.
His voice came low, dangerous. “Ever
