The cell turned into an absolute nightmare.
Before I could even dodge, Stephen lunged with a burst of psychotic strength. His left hand clamped around my throat, the rough, filthy skin choking off my scream as he slammed me violently against the cold stone wall.
CRACK!
Pain exploded through my shoulder and back, forcing a choked sob from my lips. My vision swam with dark spots as the rough stone scraped away skin, warm blood soaking through the fabric of my dress.
"Look at you!" Stephen hissed, his breath hot and rancid against my cheek. He pressed the dull, jagged iron spike against my collarbone, dragging it slowly downward, digging just deep enough to slice skin. "The arrogant Duchess of the South! Where is your demon husband now, Seraphina? Is he coming to rescue his pretty little doll?"
I thrashed against him, my hands clawing at his grip, but the impact against the wall had left my body numb and trembling. I cast a frantic, desperate look toward the doorway.
