Chapter 40

Elena’s POV

"Come on, Elena, eat something," Alex coaxed. "You're being stubborn again."

My mind raced. I knew that I needed to escape, but my body betrayed me. I took a bite of food, hoping to regain some strength.

As I ate, Alex stroked my hair, his touch making my skin crawl. "You're mine, Elena. I love you, and I'll take care of you. Just stop fighting me. Just eat so you will have strength for me”.

“Strength for you? How? What do you mean?” I asked him for clarification.

As I swallowed the food, I felt a surge of revulsion. I knew what Alex's words really meant. He wanted me strong enough to satisfy his twisted desires. I couldn't bear the thought of his touch, his hands on me, his…

I pushed the plate away, my appetite gone. "I'm full," I lied, trying to sound convincing.

Alex's eyes narrowed. "Don't play games with me, Elena. You need to eat. You need to be strong... for me."

I shuddered at the implication. I knew what would happen if I refused. The bruises on my body still ac