The fallout from Marcus LeClair's betrayal hit hard.
Alexander knew the only way to protect Elena—and the project—was to take drastic measures.
At a press conference in London, cameras flashed as Alexander stepped up to the podium. Elena stood beside him, completely unaware of what he was about to do.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Alexander's voice carried with authority, "to put an end to the rumors regarding my personal life and my company, I'd like to make an announcement."
He turned to Elena, his gray eyes burning into hers.
"This is my fiancée, Elena Carter."
The room erupted in gasps and flashes of cameras.
Elena's mouth fell open. Fiancée?
She grabbed his arm, whispering fiercely, "What the hell are you doing?"
"Protecting you," he murmured back, his hand covering hers in a grip that brooked no argument.
That night, when the chaos subsided, she stormed into his suite. "You had no right—"
"I had every right," Alexander cut her off, his voice low and commanding. "Marcus won't touch you now. No one will. You're mine."
The word mine sent a shiver down her spine.
She hated it.
She wanted it.
And she had no idea how to escape it.