Anna's POV:

Alexander lifted me against his chest and strode toward the bedroom. His arms locked around me like iron bands, and my stomach twisted at how easily he carried my weight, how completely he took control without asking. I pressed my lips together and let my head rest against his shoulder, but the feeling lingered—possessive, heavy, like I belonged to him the way an object did.

He lowered me onto the bed with surprising gentleness, his hands steady ...