The slap stopped Samuel in his tracks. He ran his tongue along the inside of his cheek where she'd hit him, his eyes cold as a hawk's as he stared at her, laughing instead of getting angry. In truth, he wouldn't force himself on her if she truly refused. But he desperately wanted her. Desperately, like a mad man.

"Samuel, don't you dare touch me," Eliana said, glaring at him with hatred.

Samuel softened his voice as he carefully moved closer to her. He said, "Eli, ...