Ruby Madden’s Reviews > Debt Inheritance > Status Update

How could he give me something so incredible all while hating me? His mercurial moods, his unreadable face— it confused me. Even worse, it upset me.

“I like it when you’re feisty. Your whole perception of the world is warped. You live in a fairytale, princess, and I’m about to destroy it.”

He would’ve succeeded if my terror hadn’t mellowed into bewilderment then gratefulness. He’d done me a favour— I preferred the company of his hounds. They not only tolerated my intrusion but welcomed me into the pack.

Clive, the driver, never slowed, continuing through the night as if brother rivalry and debts extracted from human misery was common. The gentle rocking of the vehicle did nothing to relieve the anger between Jethro and Daniel, but every wheel spin helped shed the fogginess I’d existed in for the past few hours.

This man was fastidiously groomed and softly spoken, but beneath it all raged a devil in disguise.

“You naïve little girl. If I took you, you wouldn’t be adored or worshipped. You’d be used and fucked. I have no patience for sweet.”

Mystery. Everything about him spoke of trickery and wile. He’d barely spoken, yet I felt his requests. For some stupid reason, it felt as if he’d trained me with his silence to be alert, ready, eager to please. I hated his effortless power.

Alone. Afraid. Angry. So damn angry.

A stupid secret crush. With a stranger no less. It’s a sad day when I’m emotionally invested in a fantasy.