CONTENT WARNING: This chapter contains graphic descriptions of past trauma, sexual assault (implied/attempted), and extreme violence. Reader discretion is strongly advised.
"Olivia?" Kyle's voice dropped, the sword slipping from his trembling fingers and clattering to the floor. He looked at Mathias with a face flushed crimson, then turned back to her, his bravado vanishing like smoke. "What... what are you doing here? I thought—"
Olivia arched a single, elegant eyebrow, her gaze cutting through him like a blade. "What am I doing in my husband's chambers, Kyle? Is that truly the question you're posing?"
A wave of pure, unadulterated terror washed over him. Olivia was beyond irritated; she was a storm contained within silk sheets.
"All I wanted was to sleep," she hissed, her voice vibrating with exhaustion. "Is that such a monumental request? And why is everyone standing here as if this were a public square? Get out. All of you."
