The Consequences How do I punish you, mi amor? Rafaels voice was soft, almost affectionate, as he trailed his fingers along Elenas jaw.
The words sent a cold shiver down her spine.
She sat on the edge of the massive bed in the suite he had locked her inher so-called private retreat in the penthouse.
The windows stretched from floor to ceiling, showing a breathtaking view of the city lights.
But she wasnt free to leave.
Elena forced herself to meet his gaze.
She wouldnt give him the satisfaction of looking afraid, even though her heart pounded like a trapped bird in her chest.
I didnt mean to upset you, she murmured, choosing her words carefully.
She had to be smart.
Rafael smiled, tilting his head like he was admiring a piece of art.
Didnt you? She swallowed.

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I just needed fresh air.
His fingers slid down to her throat, pressing lightlynot enough to hurt, just enough to remind her of the power he held.
Fresh air, he echoed, amused.
And yet, you were running straight to him.
Elena didnt respond.
Anything she said would only make things worse.
Rafael sighed, shaking his head as if he were disappointed.
I give you everything, and this is how you repay me? He leaned in, his breath warm against her ear.
I love you, Elena.
But love requires discipline.
Her stomach twisted.
He pulled away, studying her for a long moment before finally stepping back.
You wont be leaving this penthouse for a while, he said, his tone casuallike he was talking about the weather.
Elenas hands clenched in her lap.
Rafael Ive already informed your office that youll be working from home, he interrupted smoothly.
No dinners, no events, no unnecessary calls.
Ill handle everything.
Her throat tightened.He was cutting her off from the world.
She forced herself to breathe.Stay calm.
Stay in control.You cant just lock me away like this.
Rafael chuckled, as if the idea of her arguing was amusing.
He leaned down, brushing a slow kiss against her cheek.
I can do whatever I want, mi amor.
*** Later that evening, Rafael stood by the bar, pouring himself a drink while Elena sat stiffly on the couch.
The golden lights of the penthouse cast long shadows over the polished floors.
She had barely spoken since their earlier conversation.
She was too busy trying to figure out her next move.
Rafael turned, swirling the dark liquid in his glass.
You know, I thought about killing him.
Elenas breath caught in her throat.
He smiled lazily.
Alexander.
She forced herself to stay still.
Dont.
Rafael took a slow sip of his drink, watching her over the rim of his glass.
Relax, mi amor.
I dont kill people unless I have to.
He set the glass down with a quiet clink.
But if you try something like that again… well, lets just say your little lover will regret ever coming back into your life.
Her nails dug into her palms.
Youre lying.
Rafael smirked.
Am I? Elenas stomach twisted into knots.
He wasnt bluffing.
She knew what he was capable of.
I dont want to hurt him, Rafael continued, walking toward her.
He crouched down so they were at eye level.
But you force my hand when you act out.
She swallowed the lump in her throat.
Please, she whispered, hating herself for the desperation in her voice.
Rafael reached up, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
Good girl, he murmured.
Now, lets make sure we dont have to have this conversation again.
*** Just as she thought he was done, Rafael stood up and walked to his desk.
He pulled open a drawer and retrieved a black folder, flipping through it slowly before turning back to her.
You see, mi amor, he said, holding up the file, I always plan ahead.
Elena frowned.
What is that? Rafael smirked.
Insurance.
He strolled back over and dangled the folder in front of her, just out of reach.
Inside this file is everything I need to ruin Alexander.
Her heart stopped.
What do you mean? Rafael sat beside her, his tone almost playful.
Fraud, old debts, a few things hes tried to keep buried.
I even found something that could land him in prison.
Elenas hands shook.
Youre lying.
He laughed softly.
You keep saying that.
And yet, here we are.
She felt like the walls were closing in.
He had trapped her.
Not just physically, but in every way possible.
If she ran, Alexander would suffer.
If she stayed, she would never be free.
Rafael leaned in, pressing the file against her chest.
Tell me, mi amor, he whispered.
How much is he worth to you? Next Chap