"But you belong here," he said softly, which only made it worse. "This is your home, your family. And I’m your husband — not officially yet, but soon. You’ll be mine forever."

Tears streamed down my face as his words sank in. I couldn’t accept the life he wanted for me.

"I’ve never had a woman before," he continued, his tone flat but serious. "You’re the first—and the last."

Anger burned inside me. My fists tightened as I glared at him.

"Keeping someone against their will ...