I glared at him with pure hatred, my fists curling by my sides."Oo, it seems the little princess is angry now," he said with a mocking smirk. "What were you thinking? That I'd be on top of you, kissing you like some fairytale prince? That I'd treat you like the precious princess you used to be in your mansion?"
I almost laughed at the absurdity. What? Is he serious? Why would I even allow him to touch me? I opened my mouth to speak, but his voice sliced through the air before I could utter a word."Listen—" his tone dropped dangerously low, "you don't speak when I'm talking. I bought you with my own money. You're nothing more than a possession here… a slave." His eyes hardened like stone. "You'd better know your place in this mansion, Aurora. And don't try to act smart. You won't like it when I'm mad."
If this wasn't his mad side, then I dreaded to see the real thing.God… what have I gotten myself into? I sat on the edge of the bed, my body trembling, tears spilling freely down my cheeks. I cried until my eyes ached, my chest heaving from the sobs. When the tears finally subsided, I dragged myself into the bathroom and let the cold shower wash over me, hoping it could numb the ache in my heart.
After drying off, I stepped into the closet and froze. The space was already stocked with my clothes. But when I turned my head, my eyes widened in shock. His clothes were there too.No. No, no, no. Does this mean we'll be sharing the same room? The thought of his hands on me made my stomach twist in disgust. I quickly slid into a soft pink nightgown, throwing on a robe for extra cover.
When I re-entered the bedroom, I was relieved to find it empty. Without wasting time, I climbed onto the bed, curling into the blankets. Exhaustion pulled me under within minutes.
Mark walked into the room moments later. His eyes immediately found her, asleep and seemingly at peace. He stepped closer, his gaze tracing the delicate curve of her face.
"You really are beautiful…" he murmured under his breath. But then he noticed the faint swelling on her cheek. His jaw clenched. What happened here? Why didn't I notice it earlier? Then it struck him makeup.
He frowned, but said nothing. Retreating to the bathroom, he showered and returned in his pajamas. Without a word, he lay down on the farthest edge of the bed, the silence between them thick as the night.My long lashes flickered as the morning light spilled into the room. Stretching slowly, I turned toward the other side of the bed only to find it empty. Relief flooded me instantly.
I took my bath quickly, choosing a sleeveless top and a mini skirt. A touch of light makeup later, I left the room. There was both a staircase and an elevator, but I opted for the stairs less risk of running into that husband of mine. I had already decided: I'd avoid him at all costs. By the time I reached the bottom of the grand staircase, I was panting lightly. Now I understood why the elevator existed.
The mansion's interior stole my breath it was all polished marble, glittering chandeliers, and rich, golden accents. I was still lost in the opulence when a warm voice called out.
"Hi, sister! I hope your night was great."
I turned to see a young woman with a friendly smile. "Sorry I couldn't introduce myself properly last night. I'm Tiwa."I had a good rest, thanks for asking. I'm Aurora."
Nice name," she said brightly. "Come on, let's have breakfast together."
I nodded, silently grateful for her kindness, and followed her into the dining hall. But my brief sense of relief shattered the moment I saw him Mark seated at the head of the table. From the look in his eyes, it was clear he had been waiting. "So, you're this lazy at home too?" he said coldly. "At least you should have the decency to wake up early and come down for breakfast." My blood boiled. Who does he think he is? I rolled my eyes and slid into the seat beside Tiwa. "Hey, bro," Tiwa frowned, "is that how you talk to your wife? Please, be careful with your words."