Chapter 46

Alex's grip on me tightened, his body vibrating with anger. "Then go," he shouted, his voice echoing through the cavernous hallway. "If you want to leave so badly, then leave."

The challenge in his voice was like a slap in the face, jolting me out of my despair. "Fine," I spat, yanking myself out of his arms. "I will."

I turned and ran, my bare feet pounding down the hallway, the chilly air of the mansion stinging my skin. The door to the outside world was just a few steps away, but the bond felt like a bungee cord, snapping me back to him. I could hear his footsteps behind me, the sound of his heavy boots like thunder in my ears.

As I reached the door, I threw it open and stumbled into the night, the cool air slapping me in the face like a cold, hard reality. The moon bathed the grounds in a silvery glow, illuminating the path that led to freedom.

Alex caught up to me, his hand grabbing my arm, spinning me around to face him. "You can't escape this," he growled, his eyes burning with