VALORIA WILDEROSE
(THIS CHAPTER CONTAINS ATTEMPTED SEXUAL ASSAULT — PLEASE READ WITH CARE)
I hold back the bile rising from my gut, watching him with clear disdain. Every cell in my body rejects his presence, his touch, the very air he breathes in my direction.
"I w–was never h–happy with yo–you."
The words hang between us like a declaration of war. For once, I don't regret speaking my truth, even as his expression darkens.
"And are you happy now with that monster king? The man that torments and looks down on your people?" His voice drips with condescension, as if he has any right to judge anyone after what he's done.
"I w–won't ev–ver be h–ha–happy until I–I've rid myself of y–y–you peop–ple," I spit venomously, and he's not the least bit pleased.
His hands fall to my shoulders and grab tight, fingers digging into already bruised flesh. I can't help the wince of pain that escapes me, and he sees it—enjoys it even.
