Chase awoke early in the morning, preparing for a business trip to London, burdened by unresolved matters involving clients who were reluctant to pay him.
The previous week had been chaotic, with Ella staying in his room. Chase insisted she sleep beside him, citing an injury to his shoulder as an excuse. Ella was aware of his manipulation, but she hesitated to refuse; during her first attempt to do so, Chase had threatened her with his gun, reminding her of the favor she owed him for rescuing her from the abuse she had endured at the hands of Patrick.
Chase asserted that sharing a bed with a man who cared for her was far better than being subjugated to someone devoid of feelings who would force himself upon her. After contemplating his words, Ella realized he was right, and from that p
