Ruthless Games

by Roxy Sloane

I thought I’d love her forever. Now I’ll hate her until the day I die. My prisoner. My wife. She has no idea, this is just the beginning.

“Because I had to,” he grinds out. “To protect—” “The Barretti empire,” I finish, scornful. “Of course. It always comes first to you.” Nero wrenches his hand away.

This is what he’s been holding onto, I realize. This is what’s been between us all along. It wasn’t just my father’s betrayal he’s been punishing me for.

“It was real for me,” I repeat. “I could never have faked a love like that. It was always real.”

I want to see her belly swell with my baby, create a new life for the both of us and make up for lost time.

Nero’s stressed expression melts into a smile. “You brought me lunch.”

“And it’s time you started acting like it. You don’t need to come to me, asking permission, like you’re on some fucking allowance. You want it? It’s yours.”

“Nothing to thank me for, Princess.” Nero kisses me. “But if you insist… I can think of a few ways…”

The one who won my heart. It’s touching to know that he’s not gone forever.

“You don’t get to walk away from me,” he growls, stalking closer. “Yes, I do!” I spit. “It’s over. I’ll never forgive you for this!”