Aira.
His grip on me loosened a little, probably because he didn't want to lose me to suffocation just yet. I coughed violently, dragging air into my lungs, the sweet taste of oxygen a welcome relief. The tears poured down my cheeks, my fear almost rendering me immobile.
No, I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of watching me crumble. With all the courage I could muster, I gritted through clenched teeth, "No."
My answer was definite. Final.
Lord Mortis's face contorted into something despicable, his features twisted in a snarl. He sent a hit across my face, the blow sending my head whipping to the side. My mouth filled with the coppery taste of blood, and I felt a tooth loosen.
"Stubborn b***h!" he growled, his hot breath making my skin crawl. "Do you know how helpless you are right
