Jonathan's POV
The sharp crack of leather against flesh echoed through the council chamber. My father stood behind me, his whip raised for another strike.
"Young man, if you don't settle down immediately, we'll be forced to sedate you."
"Try it and see what happens."
"Jonathan Warner!"
The whip came down across my back again. Each lash only fed the rage burning in my veins instead of subduing it.
I caught the leather tail in my grip, feeling my palm split open. Blood pooled on the marble floor beneath me, steady drops falling like rain from a storm cloud.
My father's eyes met mine across the room. I saw the terror there, mixed with his desperate need to maintain control. But his time for dominance had passed.
Because of him and his precious favoritism toward my younger brother, Savannah was gone. They could end my life right here if they wanted, but first I would find my wife no matter what it cost.
To do that, I needed to send a message.
