Chapter 52. A Claim Unspoken

Victoria’s POV

Dominic’s frown deepened as I instinctively pulled back, the weight of his displeasure hanging between us. He said nothing at first, but the tension in his body spoke volumes. His dark gaze locked onto mine, commanding and unwavering.

“Victoria,” he said, his tone even yet unyielding. “Come with me.”

Before I could form a protest, his arm wrapped firmly around my waist, his hand settling at the curve of my hip. The contact was immediate and electrifying, making me acutely aware of every inch of space—or lack thereof—between us.

“Dominic—” I started, my voice faltering as the heat of his touch burned through the fabric of my dress.

“I’d like you to meet a few of my business partners,” he interrupted smoothly, his voice calm yet authoritative. The words, though spoken with ease, carried an unmistakable claim that left no room for questioning.

His gesture and tone were deliberate, designed to send a message not just to me, but t