Chokehold

by Leigh Rivers

“I know you can stand up for yourself, but that’s beside the point. I’m your boyfriend, Cole. Your man. Your battles are my fucking battles. Don’t you dare try to fight alone! Not anymore. Not over my dead body. I love you, for fuck’s sake. You don’t ever have to stand up for yourself anymore, not when I’m here.” I shove away, my body trembling with rage.