Chapter 199

Emmeline raised a trembling hand in a futile attempt to push him away, but Richard’s grip was unshakably strong - likely augmented by the terror coursing through her at the thought of displeasing Zavian in any way.

“B-but none of them think anything bad about you,” she pleaded desperately. “You’re just being paranoid! There’s no need for...for any of that.”

A harsh bark of laughter cut her off as Richard’s fingers tightened around her shoulders like a vise, the pressure surely leaving marks on her pale skin. “You’ll do exactly as I say without arguing, understand?” he snarled, his eyes glittering with menace. “Or the consequences will be...unpleasant, to say the very least.”

Then, as suddenly as his outburst began, it ended. Richard released her with a disdainful shove, turning on his heel to stalk further into the suite without a backwards glance.

Emmeline remained frozen against the wall for several endless moments, stunned and shaking, before the muffled t