Any Means Necessary

by Lila Herron

“Sit on my lap, Dewdrop. All the way.” Callum's gaze on me means business, his grip on my waist tightening. “I’m heavy, I don’t want to hurt you.” My attempt to brush him off isn’t successful, and his hands take my hips firmly.

“Give me the fucking phone, Lexie.” Before I know what I’m doing, her phone is in one of my hands and the other takes a possessive hold of her throat, pinning her against the wall. “Get on a dating app again, and I’ll leave a trail of asshats with their throats slit across the city leading to your door.” I tower over her, fury radiating from every tensed muscle. Her breath hitches against my hand on her neck, eyes glittering with satisfaction. “You’re really hot when you’re angry.” She’s not the least bit intimidated. Instead, she’s turned on by my show of dominance.

“I’d never smother your spark, Lexie. I like your fire. I don’t want to control you, you’re perfect just the way you are.” Like the fucking sun that gives life to everything under its rays. And I’m a selfish bastard addicted to her warmth.

“You’ve been mine since you signed the contract. But I’ve been yours from the moment you demanded to see my ID. That ink sealed your fate and now this ink seals mine.”