A pinch on my hip brings me back to the room. I clamp my aching jaw together and say, “My apologies, I missed that. What did you say, darling?” Darling. Perhaps my playing into Alberto’s sick fantasy will get me out of another punishment. I turn to him and flash my sweetest smile. It seems to work, because the fire in his eyes simmers and he grips my hand. “Show him the ring.” Swallowing hard, I meet Angelo’s gaze again, slowly inching my hand into the space between us. It’s trembling. Must be all the wine.
