The moment I bent my knees, the atmosphere in the VIP room reached a fever pitch. Everyone cheered as if watching a show, savoring the sight of my dignity being crushed into the dust. Before the crowd, I bowed my head to the floor, apologized, and obeyed his every command. The illness inside me then fully erupted. A searing, tearing pain wracked my bones, and all color drained from my face. I didn't dare stop; I couldn't let my efforts be in vain. All I wanted was for Liam to return to a normal life, untainted by my entanglements. I crawled to Lucas's feet and, mustering my last ounce of strength, looked up. "I'm sorry. I was wrong. Please, Mr. Hayes, show some mercy and let Liam go." The moment the words left my mouth, Lucas slapped me hard across the face. "Sarah Clark, you are so

